County Democratic Party holds virtual convention, appoints officers

The Richmond County Democratic Party held its annual convention virtually Saturday afternoon.

The members nominated and voted to approve a new slate of county party officers, as well as nominate and vote on state party executive committee board members.

Dr. Bobbie Richardson, the new North Carolina Democratic Party chair, and Gov. Roy Cooper each had recorded video greetings for the convention attendees.

“A strong and resilient recovery starts with leaders like all of you in counties across our state,” Cooper said. “Supporting your community and neighbors through these times and being a shining example of what North Carolina is all about. Because of friends like you. And the work of county parties across our state. I’m confident our future’s bright, and I’m so grateful for your continued service in leadership.”

The proposed slate of county party officer nominees included, Crystal Morrison for chair, Jon Johnson for 1st vice chair, Patricia A. Martin for 2nd vice chair, Amy Bruce Locklear for secretary and Preston Waddell for treasurer. The 3rd vice chair position is currently vacant, but will be appointed by the chair.

The proposed slate of nominees was voted on and approved by the virtual convention attendees.

Morrison said the individual in the 3rd vice chair position is required to be 36 years old or younger, in accordance the state party’s requirements. She added that there are currently a couple people under consideration for the vacant position, but that they are evaluating whether or not they have the time to allocate towards all the responsibilities that the position requires.

The state executive committee requires three members to represent Richmond County, with the chair being one of those members. Morrison, Waddell and Lois Jones were nominated and approved by the convention.

Near the end of the convention, former 9th Congressional District nominee Cynthia Wallace announced the formation of a nonprofit initiative called the “New Rural Project,” aimed at increasing voter engagement.

“We are going to be focused on helping the Democratic Party and like-minded organizations to really increase voter turnout in our minority and young communities, and figure out how we can support that with civic education and issue advocacy,” Wallace said.