What is the Democratic Party (really)
The Democratic Party operates through a complex yet inclusive governance structure designed to ensure representation, participation, and accountability at every level. Understanding the structure is key to understanding why you should want to become committeemen and women.
Active participation, fundraising, volunteering, and more in state councils, like the LGBTQIA Council, your local county party, and clubs, is the entry point on your path to being someone who influences the Democratic National Committee (DNC).
National Level: The Democratic National Committee (DNC)
The DNC is the governing body of the Democratic Party at the national level. It coordinates strategy to support Democratic candidates for various offices, organizes the Democratic National Convention, and develops the national party platform.
Kentucky Democrats nominate delegates to the DNC by Kentucky Democratic Committeemen and Women.
- Chairperson: Elected by DNC members, the Chairperson leads the DNC and represents the party nationally.
- Officers and Committees: Includes various officers (Vice Chairs, Treasurer, Secretary) and standing committees (Rules, Platform, Credentials).
- Members: Comprised of representatives from state parties, elected officials, and appointed members.
State Level: Kentucky Democratic Party
Each state has its own Democratic Party organization, which is responsible for local party governance, candidate support, and grassroots mobilization.
- State Chairperson: Leads the state party and represents it within the DNC.
- State Committee: Governing body that includes representatives from different regions or districts within the state.
The Party is powered by YOU! Through Statewide Councils and Caucuses, County Parties, and Clubs.
Local Democratic Party structures are crucial for grassroots involvement and ensuring that the party reflects the community’s needs and values.
- County Committees: Manage party affairs at the county level, support local candidates, and organize events.
- Precinct Committees: Represent the smallest local units, typically neighborhoods or precincts, and are the frontline for voter engagement and mobilization.
Don’t Get Mad. Get Elected
Your Voice in Motion: The Heart of Democracy.
- Who’s in Charge Anyway? County, Caucus and Council, State, and National Committeemen and women are essential for connecting voters with the party. They engage in door-to-door canvassing, voter registration, and organizing local events, fielding and recruiting candidates for elected office, and growing and strengthening our civic life and the Democratic movement.
- Want Your Voice Noticed? Join Us! By serving on a committee or sub-committee with the LGBTQIA Council for Kentucky Democrats, you will gain valuable experience in party governance and community organization. Active party leadership and service is the fastest way to get noticed by donors, organizers, and activist who can help advance your ideas, help you run, introduce you to donors, and more.
Advancing to State Party Councils
- State Council Membership: Committeemen and women can advance to state party councils, where they have a say in state-level decisions, strategies, and policies.
- Policy Influence: Serving on state councils provides an opportunity to influence the party platform, policy priorities, and candidate endorsements at the state level.
- Leadership Development: State councils offer training, networking, and leadership development opportunities, preparing individuals for higher roles within the party.
Reaching the Democratic National Committee (DNC)
- National Representation: State council members and leaders can be elected or appointed to the DNC, representing their state at the national level.
- Strategic Influence: DNC members participate in shaping the national strategy, policies, and platform of the Democratic Party.
- Leadership Roles: Those with significant experience and influence may seek leadership positions within the DNC, such as committee chair.
Become a Contributing Member of the LGBTQIA Council for Kentucky Democrats
$10.00 / monthdonate
- LGBTQ Council Member Card
- Free Access to Business Meetings
- 10% off on swag and event contributions
$25.00 / monthdonate
- LGBTQ Council Member Card
- Free Access to Business Meetings
- 15% off on swag and event contributions
- Commemorative name tag to sport at events
$50.00 / monthdonate
- LGBTQ Council Member Card
- Free Access to Business Meetings
- 20% off on swag and event contributions
- Commemorative Name Tag to sport at events
- LGBTQ Council Pegasus Lapel Pin to sport your support for the work of the Council