Claiming credit for bucking historical trends after his party netted 22 seats last night, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee chairman Chris Van Hollen nonetheless told reporters today he is through after one term as the House party's chief political strategist.

Asked about his future at a post-election press conference, Van Hollen said he wouldn't seek a new term as chairman. "I'm exploring all my options. An option I'm not exploring is continuing as chairman of the DCCC," Van Hollen said. "It's been a great two years, it's been a wonderful experience working with my colleagues."

With rumors swirling that Democratic Conference chairman Rahm Emanuel may head to the White HOuse as chief of staff, Van Hollen may be looking for a promotion in Democratic leadership. Van Hollen said he had not talked to Emanuel about the Illinois congressman's plans, and he was circumspect about his own future. "I look forward to continuing to be a part of the discussion," was all Van Hollen would say.

With Van Hollen vacating the top post at the DCCC, speculation will center on Florida Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who with Van Hollen co-chaired the party's "Red to Blue" program in 2006. This year, Wasserman Schultz co-chaired the program, which targeted vulnerable Republican-held seats, with Rep. Artur Davis of Alabama and Iowa Rep. Bruce Braley. Both Davis and Braley have also been mentioned as potential future chairs of the DCCC.

A spokesman for Wasserman Schultz said she is traveling today.

Unlike Republicans, who have to run to head their party's campaign arm, Democrats give sole power to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to decide who will head the DCCC. A spokesperson for Pelosi could not be immediately reached.