Bill Burton, a former adviser to President Barack Obama, is joining Howard Schultz's team as the former Starbucks CEO considers an independent presidential bid in 2020, sources familiar with the plans tell CNN. (FILE PHOTO)

Bill Burton, a former adviser to President Barack Obama, is joining Howard Schultz's team as the former Starbucks CEO considers an independent presidential bid in 2020, sources familiar with the plans tell CNN. (FILE PHOTO)

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Former Obama aide joins Howard Schultz's team. Democrats aren't happy.

Bill Burton, a former adviser to President Barack Obama, defended his decision to join Howard Schultz's team as the former Starbucks CEO considers an independent presidential bid in 2020, pushing back against suggestions that Schultz could be a spoiler.