Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed says he believes a change in leadership of the state Democratic Party is needed because of distractions involving the state chairman.

Reed, one of Georgia's highest-profile Democrats, said Wednesday the focus needs to be on building a successful campaign for the 2014 U.S. Senate race.

Democratic Party Chairman Mike Berlon has been dealing with several issues recently, including a voluntary reprimand by the State Bar of Georgia, a separate lawsuit filed by a client and reports of weak party fundraising.

Reed emphasized that his comments were not about Berlon's issues, but rather insuring that the chair is focused on the campaign and not personal distractions.

Reed reiterated his belief that Democrats can win the competitive Senate race.

He said Berlon "owes it to the party to move on."

Tags: Kasim Reed, Mike Berlon, state democratic party, U.S. Senate race