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2024 Democratic Candidates Richland Countydownload below

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Local Councils

Columbia City Council

Blythewood Town Council

Town of Eastover

Irmo Town Council

Town of Arcadia Lakes

City of Forest Acres

City of Cayce

Local Councils

Precinct Executive&nbsp; Committee Representatives

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County Chair Valerie Moore PHONE: 803-939-5966 EMAIL: <a href="mailto:chair@richlandscdems.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" style="color: var(--color-text)">chair@richlandscdems.com</a>Executive Committeewoman Margaret Sumpter PHONE: 803-260-1731 EMAIL: <a href="mailto:mwestsumpter@yahoo.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" style="color: var(--color-text)">mwestsumpter@yahoo.com</a>Executive Committeeman Marcurius Byrd PHONE: 803-457-9886 EMAIL:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:byrd_mar_j@yahoo.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" style="color: var(--color-text)">byrd_mar_j@yahoo.com</a>Alternate Executive Committeewoman Sherron Williams PHONE:803-312-3417 EMAIL: <a href="mailto:outofcola60@gmail.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" style="color: var(--color-text)">outofcola60@gmail.com</a> Alternate Executive Committeeman Michael McCauley PHONE: 843-343-4109 EMAIL: <a href="mailto:mwmccauley@gmail.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">mwmccauley@gmail.com</a>

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The Mission of the Richland County Democratic Party

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Richland County Democratic Party Platform and Bylaws

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Call to Action

<h2>How To Run For Office</h2>RCDP and SCDP are here to help. This guide is meant to help you through the first few steps toward holding public office. It’s important to quickly gain a realistic expectation of what it takes to run for office, the players and resources involved, and the things that will help you win and those that won’t. We can’t give you every answer. This guide is not meant to replace your campaign plan.

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<h2>Feb 11, 2025</h2>Dear RCDP Friends,The past three weeks have been beyond concerning for anyone who cares about democracy and the rule of law in this country. Our most basic values are being tested - safety, freedom and the dignity and respect of&nbsp;ALL&nbsp;human beings.&nbsp;During his campaign, Trump lied and denied knowledge of the “Project 2025” playbook, which he is now implementing at breakneck speed. He doesn't care if his executive orders and actions are legal, constitutional or humane.&nbsp;The good news is that pushing back has an impact.&nbsp;We can’t wait until the midterm elections or for any one group or elected leader to “save” us.&nbsp;We are all responsible for our democracy.&nbsp;Let’s move beyond fear, disbelief and anger towards action. Take time to care for yourself and enjoy life, but don’t totally disconnect. One of the most fundamental differences between those who oppose Trump's actions and those who don't, is the belief that the&nbsp;government is, and can be, a force for good…if the focus is “WE” versus “ME”.&nbsp;There will always be work to do in order to achieve a more perfect union, but going backwards towards a time when a few benefitted on the backs of the many is unacceptable. Democracy is a verb! Together, WE can make a difference. Here are just a few actions to take this week....&nbsp;<a href="https://www.richlandscdems.com/rapid-response" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">Click for Actions</a>

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How To Run For Office

<h4>The mission of the Richland County Democratic Party is to elect Democratic candidates and to encourage participation in the political process by people of all backgrounds who support Democratic principles.</h4>

Messages from the RCDP Chair

Be a Democracy Builder

Bluesky

<h2>Jan 27, 2025</h2>During the months following the election, the RCDP team of volunteers and friends have been actively listening, reflecting and planning next steps. Intense emotions, anxieties and concerns have been hallmarks of one-on-one conversations and group listening sessions during this significant shift in the leadership of our nation.The loss of so many notable and dedicated leaders in recent months has intensified concerns for the future. We’ve mourned the recent losses of remarkable leaders like <a href="https://www.cartercenter.org/about/experts/jimmy_carter.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">President Jimmy Carter,</a> <a href="https://scdp.org/scdp-news/press-releases/honoring-the-life-and-legacy-of-congressman-john-spratt/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Congressman John Spratt</a> and <a href="https://scdp.org/scdp-news/press-releases/south-carolina-democrats-mourn-the-loss-of-former-state-senator-kay-patterson/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Senator Kay Patterson</a>, who, as elected leaders, fought for the democratic values we hold so dear. More losses came with the passing of <a href="https://sc.edu/uofsc/posts/2024/12/james-solomon-jr-legacy.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener">James L. Solomon, Jr.</a>, <a href="https://scafricanamerican.com/dr-lonnie-randolph/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dr. Lonnie B. Randolph</a> and <a href="https://www.justiceforallsc.org/profile/thomas-gaither/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Thomas Gaither</a> who led on a local level. but had an impact reaching far beyond our state’s borders.Now, as we move into uncertain and challenging times, we must hold onto the values of justice and equality that so many of those who came before us devoted their lives to. The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., set expectations that remain true to this day. In his words, “Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle. And so we must straighten our backs and work for our freedom.”It may not be possible for us to see all the results of our efforts for justice and peace now, but we must carry on in our determination to realize these ideals for future generations.I invite you to join with others who care at the Richland County Democratic Party as we continue in this work together. You can find opportunities at <a href="http://richlandscdems.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">richlandscdems.com</a> for listening sessions, surveys, social and educational opportunities, candidate workshops, actions to prepare for upcoming elections and more.

RCDP Volunteers collected food for local pantries at drop-off sites&nbsp;across&nbsp;the county.

WHAT HAS RCDP BEEN UP TO?

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Working to elect democrats up and down the ballot!

RCDP County Party Officers

Valerie Moore

Chair

Sam Johnson

1st Vice Chair

margaret sumpter

2nd Vice Chair

Austin Jackson

3rd Vice Chair

marcurius byrd

Executive Committeeman

Mckenzie Watson

Executive Committee woman

mike Mccauley

Alternate Executive Committeeman

Emily Scott

Alternate Executive Committee woman

Melzina cannon

Treasurer

Secretary

Ashley West-Fee

Maryann wright

myles taste

SCDP Executive Committeeman

SCDP Executive Committeewoman

Alternate SCDP Executive Committeeman

sherron Williams

Alternate SCDP Executive Committeewoman

thomasina gary

RCDP Officers

Changemakers

Richland County Democratic Party

<img src="https://run.imgix.net/3f13fcb4-b342-470f-973d-721701325898/e1c46c76-7c79-4608-b0a0-fcfc39985afe/e1c46c76-7c79-4608-b0a0-fcfc39985afe.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C157%2C697%2C383&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">The 2024 RCDP Convention activities kicked off with a special celebration on February 27th at the “Mansion on Blanding”. Special guest Anderson Clayton (D-NC), the youngest state party chair in the nation shared her enthusiastic message and a charge to take action, getting the crowd fired up in the process. A great time was had by all: good food, good music, dancing and Democrats! We raised money to fund both the convention and the new ”Fund a Bold Future” campaign. Hat tips to Bre Spaulding, Sam Johnson, Fannie Lott and Sherron Williams for making it happen!The RCDP Convention convened on the morning of March 2nd at Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia. The accommodations were spacious, with comfortable chairs, good acoustics and other amenities to support the over 200 participants.Convention volunteers, led by Della Coulter, did an excellent job of planning and setting up the check-in and credentialing process. Voting credentials were assigned to registered Richland County voters who had not voted in the Republican primary and who signed a statement saying that they considered themselves to be Democrats.Prior to the start of the program, a light breakfast was served and informational tables provided everyone with an opportunity to interact with regional groups and other Democratic organizations.The Blythewood High School Junior ROTC presented the colors in the opening ceremony. Chairwoman Valerie Moore gave a brief review of the activities of the RCDP over the past eight months, including activities surrounding the Senate District 19 Special Election, the First in the Nation Presidential Primary and other initiatives. She reiterated Anderson Clayton’s call to action and warning that “no one is coming to rescue us”, making the case that taking action now is imperative, but also an important part of building a strategic and lasting infrastructure for Democrats in SC.The convention was then turned over to be chaired by the Honorable Tina Herbert who serves on the Columbia City Council. Christale Spain, SCDP Chair, outlined initiatives like Project Roadmap and recapped many of the state level actions taking place.Throughout the program, many members of Richland County’s elected delegation and Democratic candidates for public office were given 3 minutes each to share their messages and/or platforms. Rep. Leon Howard brought greetings from Congressman Clyburn and was followed throughout the morning by more than 20 speakers.A standing vote was conducted for the RCDP Chair and the three Vice Chairs who will serve a one-year term. Beginning in March, 2025, county conventions will return to a two year cycle occurring in odd years (not presidential or midterm years!). The only contested officer’s race was for 3rd Vice Chair with two very qualified candidates, Myles Taste (incumbent) and Mckenzie Watson, who shared their visions for the role of young leadership via this office. Myles prevailed in a close vote.RCDP Officers, March 2024-March 2025 Valerie Moore, Chair Sam Johnson, 1st Vice Chair Maryann Wright, 2nd Vice Chair Myles Taste, 3rd Vice ChairExisting Officers finishing the second year of their three-year terms: Margaret Sumpter, Executive Committeewoman Marcurius Byrd, Executive Committeeman Sherron Williams, Alternate Executive Committeewoman Mike McCauley, Alternate Executive CommitteemanPer the RCDP By-laws, the positions of Treasurer and Secretary will be approved to serve a one-year term at the next Executive Committee meeting.Mini Precinct ReorganizationAnother highlight of the convention was the inclusion of a mini "precinct reorganization". New SCDP by-laws this year removed the requirement to hold precinct organizing meetings prior to county conventions. In order to encourage and determine leaders for each of the 149 precincts in the county, signs were posted throughout the assembly room so attendees could gather with neighbors at a designated spot and discuss their precinct’s representative and alternate on the RCDP Executive Committee. As the governing body of the county party, representation from each precinct is important. Precincts with multiple people interested in serving were voted on via electronic ballot. Unopposed precinct leaders will be officially voted on at the April 1st Executive Committee meeting. A robust ninety-two precincts will now be represented, with a continuing goal of finding representatives for the remaining precincts.SCDP DelegatesIn addition to pre-submitted nominations for SCDP Delegates, nominations were accepted from the floor and at check-in. Nominees were divided by congressional district and gender and electronic ballots were emailed to credentialed voters according to their district. Paper ballots were readied, but several names were omitted from the ballot and/or were listed incorrectly. Attendees were notified that a corrected ballot would be emailed and paper ballots delivered before the end of the day. Once corrected, the ballots were successfully distributed via email and returned within 24 hours. Paper ballots were offered, but none were needed. Delegates and alternates were notified once all the ballots were submitted.ResolutionsResolutions don’t always get the attention they deserve, but they are an important step in forming the party’s platform. Resolutions submitted in advance and approved by unanimous voice vote at the convention included: ● A call for a study to identify and promote an effective means of regulating the misuse of artificial intelligence without infringing on our protected First Amendment rights. ● A call for comprehensive campaign finance reform at both the state and federal level. ● A call for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and condemnation of the rising antisemitism and anti-Islamic hate in the world. ● A call for humanitarian aid, restoration of UNRWA funding to Palestine and a permanent ceasefire in Gaza ● Support of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021 at all levels of government. ● A call for abolishment of the death penalty ● Support for President Biden and his administration’s efforts and successes.In summary, the 2024 RCDP Convention was a success in terms of engaging Richland County Democrats in the political process of choosing leadership, developing our value statements, hearing from our delegation and candidates, and for providing avenues for organizing on a very local level.

Convention

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True Blue Newsletter Jan 2025

01.27.2025

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True Blue Newsletter Oct 2024

10.03.2024

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Richland County State House Representatives

Democrat - District 74 Minority Leader

Representative J. Todd Rutherford

Democrat - District 75

Representative Heather Bauer

Democrat - District 78

Representative Beth E. Bernstein

Democrat - District 77

Representative Kambrell H. Garvin

Democrat - District 73

Representative Christopher "Chris" Hart

Democrat - District 76

Representative Leon Howard

Democrat - District 52

Representative Jermaine L. Johnson, Sr.

Democrat - District 41

Representative Annie E. McDaniel

Democrat - District 72

Representative Seth Rose

Democrat - District 79

Representative Hamilton Grant

Republican - District 71

Representative Nathan Ballentine

Democrat - District 70

Representative Robert Reese

Democrat - District 74 Minority Leader

Democrat - District 75

Democrat - District 78

Democrat - District 73

Democrat - District 76

Democrat - District 70

Democrat - District 41

Democrat - District 72

Democrat - District 79

Representative Ivory Torrey Thigpen

Republican - District 71

House Delegation

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RCDP NEWSLETTERS

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True Blue Newsletter Aug 2024

08.01.2024

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True Blue Newsletter Mar/Apr 2024

03.04.2024

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The 2024 Richland County Democratic Party Convention was a Success!

How do YOU want to help?

What Democrats Are Doing

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True Blue Newsletter Nov 2023

11.12.2023

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Together, WE can make a difference. Remember, democracy is a verb!Pushing back has an impact. Move beyond fear and disbelief and take action.

Here are ACTIONS you can take.

<h5>Call your Congressional leaders</h5>

Download the "5 CALLS" app

<h5>Let them know what you think</h5>Thank a Democrat who is working hard or weigh in on issues YOU care about.

Contact your local leaders

<h5>Hold a Town Hall!</h5>Your constituents deserve to hear from you and share their concerns with you.&nbsp;

Petition Senator Lindsay Graham

<h5>regional Democratic groups</h5>

Join other Democrats at local events

Petition Senator Tim Scott

<h5>Find helpful resources surrounding your rights and ICE enforcement.</h5>You’ll find flyers and red cards in Spanish &amp; 17 other languages. We have red cards in Spanish at the RCDP office.

Know YOUR rights and IMMIGRANT rights

<h5>Thirty lonely but beautiful actions you can take right now which probably won’t magically catalyze a mass movement against Trump, but that are still wildly important.</h5>

Thirty lonely but beautiful actions

<h5>Support Ukrainian President Zelensky’s United24</h5><h5>People from all over the world have united in their will to help Ukraine. The UNITED24 goal is to increase donations to Ukraine and ensure the efficiency and transparency.</h5>

Support Ukraine donate to United24

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The mission of the Richland County Democratic Party is to elect Democratic candidates and to encourage participation in the political process by people of all backgrounds who support Democratic principles. Funds raised by the RCDP will be used to help elect Democratic candidates and to support Democ

<h3>RCDP Mission</h3><h3>The mission of the Richland County Democratic Party is to elect Democratic candidates and to encourage participation in the political process by people of all backgrounds who support Democratic principles. Funds raised by the RCDP will be used to help elect Democratic candidates and to support Democratic programs.</h3>

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News and Press Releases

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True Blue Newsletter Jan 2024

12.01.2023

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True Blue Newsletter May 2025

05.01.2015

Richland County Democratic Party

GET THE LIST!
2026 Democratic Candidates on Richland County Ballots!

YOU NEED TO VOTE!
Download the
VOTER TIMELINE!

Download the most recent RCDP Newsletter!

WHAT HAS RCDP BEEN UP TO?

Chili Cook-Off Fundraiser!

Help Us WIN! Sign up to be a Democracy Builder!

RCDP Volunteers make
all the difference!

Show up.
Stand up.
Speak up.

RCDP Headquarters
1929 Gadsden St.
Columbia SC
Office hours vary. Call 803-939-5966
to make an appointment.

We’re grateful for your donations!

GET THE LIST!2026 Democratic Candidates on Richland County Ballots!

YOU NEED TO VOTE!Download theVOTER TIMELINE!

Download the most recent RCDP Newsletter!

WHAT HAS RCDP BEEN UP TO?

Chili Cook-Off Fundraiser!

Help Us WIN! Sign up to be a Democracy Builder!

RCDP Volunteers make all the difference!

Show up.Stand up.Speak up.

RCDP Headquarters 1929 Gadsden St.Columbia SCOffice hours vary. Call 803-939-5966to make an appointment.

We’re grateful for your donations!

GET THE LIST!
2026 Democratic Candidates on Richland County Ballots!

YOU NEED TO VOTE!
Download the
VOTER TIMELINE!

RCDP Volunteers make
all the difference!

Show up.
Stand up.
Speak up.

RCDP Headquarters
1929 Gadsden St.
Columbia SC
Office hours vary. Call 803-939-5966
to make an appointment.