After a couple of months to catch collective breaths, the Hanover Democratic Committee got off to a good start in 2025 with a well-attended meeting on January 12.
Chair Rachel Levy reminded members that Virginia will receive a lot of national attention in 2025 as one of two states that holds off -year elections. Winning back the governorship, lieutenant governorship and attorney general, and holding our margins in the General Assembly, will send a positive message about Democrats beyond our borders. She added that Jack Trammell made a strong showing in the Jan. 7 special election for the 10th Senate District, running well in Hanover thanks to years of ground work.
The featured speaker was Harry Khanna, who is one of five Virginia representatives on the Democratic National Committee. The DNC is in the process of selecting new leadership in February and Harry updated the committee on that process. Khanna said he is worried about the future following the 2024 elections, but urged Democrats to stand proud and strong.
“Even when it seems to whole world has turned it back on the Democratic Party, you are still here. Even as the voices of doubt grow louder and the temptation to throw up your hands and walk away from civic life seems overwhelming, you have chosen to be here to reaffirm the values that brought you to this fight in the first place.”
Several campaigns also had petitions to place names on upcoming ballots and Rachel reminded everyone that signing a petition for ballot access does not mean you are bound to that candidate. Educator Andy Ward, who is seeking nomination in the 60th House District, addressed the committee, as did Victor Salgado, a former Justice Department lawyer who is seeking the nomination for lieutenant governor. Both gave strong presentations in support of their candidacies.
Our next monthly meeting will be at 4 p.m. on February 9 at Around the Table, 155 Junction Drive, Ashland.
