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February 07, 2007
I AM RUNNING FOR HAMILTON COUNTY DEMOCRATIC PARTY CHAIR
Tonight, on Free Speech America radio (WGOW 102.3 FM), I will announce that I am running for Hamilton County Democratic Party Chair for the next two-year term (2007-09).
I would like to bring to our local political organization leadership experience at running a highly organized, strongly funded, tough grassroots campaign as a candidate for the Hamilton County Commission last year. Although my efforts missed the target by a couple hundred votes at defeating an eighteen-year incumbent with high name brand, my goal was to win—nothing less.
To win as a Democrat means many things. Based on my experience, it means finding, supporting and electing good candidates who are willing to go into the community and solve real problems--whether with schools, jobs, or health care. It means supporting campaigns without polarizing the public--which accomplishes little. And to win as a Democrat means building and growing our local party by establishing and expanding a vibrant grassroots movement.
While the current leader of the party, Stuart James, has said that he will not pursue another two-year term as chair, I would build and grow on the successes of his term—such as opening a headquarters and winning key local races.
Tonight, I will also announce that I am stepping away from my role as commentator, blogger and radio co-host at Free Speech America. Although Free Speech America has been a private venture by Stuart James and others (myself included), I believe the decision to step away from this interactive network may avoid any confusion as I run for local Democratic party chair. I want to thank Stuart James for the opportunity to be part of the development of Free Speech America. I will continue to support his efforts in creating a local forum for open discussion of current issues. Nonetheless, he has asked that I appear as a frequent guest on Free Speech America in the near future.
As I campaign, I look forward to listening to and talking with you about the future of Hamilton County Democrats. Together we can will keep building and growing our New Hamilton County Democratic Party—whether getting state candidates ready and elected in 2008 or preparing for a new presidential election and a discussion of national issues in 2008. Either way, we will be challenged to lead by putting up our best candidates with good ideas and by growing our party with strong grassroots approaches.
Please call me if you would like to talk with me or would like to set up a “Meet & Greet” with me about the future of our local party. My number is 423-313-0869.
| By wjbailes | 12:04 PM