I'm sure Howie didn't really have a choice, either do what Hitlery says or else...
There's a choice here. Howie took the coward's way out.
Phone conversation probably went something like this:
HRC: "Howard! Good to talk to you! Got a minute?"
Dean: "Senator, always happy to speak with you."
HRC: "Good. Listen, I've got some good people who can help you at the DNC: Karen Finney and Mike Gehrke. I think they'll really be an asset to your efforts to communicate our message."
Dean: "Now hold on! I've got some very good people on my short list for..."
HRC: "Of course! Of course! Listen, let's get together to discuss. Would you care to meet me over at Fort Marcy Park? It's got a lovely view."
Dean: "Umm, no thanks. What where their names again?"