Dems aim to reach new voters, work across political lines

The Davison County Democratic Party (DCDP) had two subcommittee meetings on June 29 to discuss election strategies and precinct organization. Instead of having one committee to cover  the elections, the committee decided to split into two to maximize efficiency for the municipal elections. 

The DCDP precinct organization committee, led by Lester Smith, met first with the goal of increasing Democrat and unaffiliated voter turnout through organization and  mobilization of precincts. There are 30 unorganized precincts in Davidson County  this committee is attempting  to mobilize. The committee decided to split into Thomasville and Lexington/Midway area groups to strategize which regions  to organize first based on data from the 2020 election. After deciding the primary precincts, the group will decide what actions they will prioritize. Whether it’s postcards or phone calls, the group emphasized the need for consistent messaging. After the precincts are organized, the committee is also planning to find ways to keep these new precincts excited and active. 

Following the precinct organization meeting, the election strategy committee met. Even though  Lexington’s election was postponed, the rest of the county will have their elections as scheduled. Right now, the main goal is to support different candidates running as Democrats and their election committees. Tina Royal emphasized the need to not feel alone or isolated during the campaign process, and wants a concerted effort from DCDP to unite the candidates. 

Also, the committee wants to work with other organizations besides the DCDP, such as the NAACP and the Republican party. Royal called for unity, saying, “Don’t be ashamed to be talking to Republicans in public… you got to work with them,” citing her experience when she ran for office and  Republicans refused to  be seen with her because she is a Democrat. To increase outreach, the committee as a whole plans to focus on  different  parts of the county each month  for the candidates. Both subcommittees are moving forward with plans, even though there is some uncertainty with the potential redistricting of precincts.