Dean Austen is a Democratic Senator from Ohio.
History[]
Austen was briefly considered to be Frank Underwood's running mate for the election in 2016 by the Democratic Leadership, as he would help with a major swing state, help a major gun reform bill pass, as well as that he was an experienced politician with few enemies. However, Frank Underwood thought he was less than ideal as a candidate, for he was "another middle-aged white guy, underwhelming, [and] unimaginative".
The Underwoods struck a deal with NRA lobbyist Julia Melman to ensure their gun reform bill doesn't pass the Senate; in exchange, Melman threatens Dean, warning that should he lose the race, they will pour every dollar they have into his opponent's war chest during primaries, should he decide to run for elected office again. He revoked his candidacy.