[Pickaway County, OH – July 11, 2024] — A wave of enthusiasm and optimism swept through Pickaway County as the Democrats celebrated the grand opening of their first physical headquarters in over two decades. Located in the heart of the community, this milestone marks a significant step for the party, aiming to bolster its presence and influence in local politics.
“My understanding is it’s the first time in 20 years that this party has had a physical address, and a home. And I keep saying it’s hard to get respect when you’re homeless, are no longer homeless, and we will demand respect.,” proclaimed Chairperson – Carolyn Loxley, a key organizer at the event. “It’s hard to get respect when you don’t have a home, and today, we are proud to say we’re back!”
The event drew a supportive crowd, including party members, strategic planners, and local supporters eager to witness the resurgence of Democratic activism in the county. Brad Cotton, a candidate for the Ohio House of Representatives, emphasized the importance of vibrant political parties in safeguarding democracy. “When our party crumbles or goes invisible, we let down everyone in this county. Today, we declare that we are back!”
Despite a setback preventing Samantha Meadows, the party’s US Congress candidate, from attending, spirits remained high as David Pepper, former chair of the Ohio Democratic Party, joined the celebration via phone. “Congratulations on getting this done,” David commended, highlighting the pivotal role of Pickaway County in upcoming elections. “I’m not surprised you have a great turnout. I think you’ve got a lot of energy there. I love seeing the challenge to Brian Stewart. I’m not surprised you’re having this event today. I’m not surprised you have a great turnout. I think you’ve got a lot of energy there. I love seeing the challenge to Brian Stewart.”
Zach Brooks, city councilman and passionate advocate for community engagement, underscored the importance of the new headquarters in amplifying the Democratic voice. “Presence is everything. We must be loud, visible, and unyielding in our commitment to this community,” Zach declared, expressing gratitude for the strategic support of Carolyn and the party’s planning team. “We don’t care how loud we are. We don’t care if you want us to shut up, we’re not going to shut up. We’re going to keep pushing for the things that we think are right for our community. I want everybody to just know that it’s been an honor to get to serve as a city councilman. So far, I’ve been your third ward city council representative since January of this year. So grateful for Carolyn’s strategic mind. Without her support, I definitely wouldn’t have been elected to that seat. So I just want to say again, thank you so much to Carolyn, for helping me get where I’m at today. And I hope that this new headquarters brings a lot of new voters to the Democrat side, I think that we just have to keep letting the people of this community know that we have sensible ideas and that we’re really using our brain when we’re thinking about this community, and we really care a lot about our community. We want to see everybody in this community thrive.”
The grand opening also featured interactive sessions and opportunities for community members to engage directly with party leaders. Attendees were encouraged to pick up Greg Cotton yard signs and participate in upcoming canvassing activities outlined on the party’s social media platforms.
“We invite everyone to join us at our monthly meetings and engage with us,” Carolyn invited, highlighting the party’s commitment to open dialogue and grassroots involvement.
The event concluded with a sense of unity and purpose as Pickaway County Democrats look ahead to upcoming elections with renewed vigor and determination.
For more information on Pickaway County Democrats and upcoming events, visit their Facebook page or contact their headquarters located at 212 South Court Street in Circleville.
