wake county democratic party chair

While I am not running for the position of Wake County Democratic Party Chair, I do have a few ideas on what is needed to lead our county party. I also feel much of this applies to county party leadership across North Carolina.

The historic election of 2008 shows the future promise and opportunity for the Democratic Party in Wake County. A massive infusion of money, staff, and enthusiastic volunteers from the Obama campaign resulted in 75% voter turnout and wins for nearly every state-wide and county-wide Democratic Candidate on the ballot. Our own county party efforts had significant impact too, with voter registration, canvassing, phone banks, distribution of voter guides, and a huge GOTV effort for early voting and Election Day. The entire Democratic team in Wake County, from each local Precinct activist up to our new President-elect, deserves great praise.

Ed Ridpath is in the running for the new Wake County Party Chair but so is Jack Nichols. Both candidates lost their bids for elected office in 2008 but both are good guys. Smart money is on Ed Ridpath, a peace maker and mellow man. Ed's is a classy guy but may have a sore "butt" from sitting on the fence more often than not. He's likeable and comes without baggage. Nichols is an affable fellow. Funny and personable but a former campaign volunteer is costing him an opportunity by attaching herself to his coattails in the form of a "slate."

Ed and Jack, good luck to you both and may the best man win.