Candidates & Campaigns Committee

Candidates & Campaign Committee supports and coordinates with Democratic candidates running for local, state and national office to ensure competitive races across Columbia County have strategic guidance, resources and organizational backing throughout the campaign cycle.

Alex Elmasri - Chair

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Communications Committee

Manages the party's public voice across all channels — website, social media, press releases, and community outreach. Crafts messaging that reflects Democratic values and keeps constituents informed about the party's activities and positions.

Bart Ziegler - Chair

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Fundraising Committee 

Organizes and executes fundraising events, donor outreach, and financial campaigns to support the party's operations and candidates. Ensures the committee has the resources needed to remain active and effective year-round.

Chairs:

D.Michael Dvorchak

Claire Ackerman

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Governance Committee 

Oversees the internal rules, bylaws, and procedures that guide how the Columbia County Democratic Committee operates. Reviews and recommends updates to party structure and ensures activities remain consistent with party principles and legal requirements.

Chairs: 

Brenda Gevertz  &Stephen King

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Issues Committee

Researches and develops the party's positions on key local, state, and national policy issues. Serves as a resource for candidates and members, helping connect Democratic values to the concerns of Columbia County residents.

Carl Atkins - Chair

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Party Building Committee

Focuses on growing and energizing the Democratic base across Columbia County. Leads voter registration drives, volunteer recruitment, and community engagement efforts to strengthen the party's long-term presence in every town and district.

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State & National Affairs Committee

Monitors legislative and political developments at the state and federal level that affect Columbia County residents. Serves as the bridge between local party activity and the broader New York State Democratic Party and national Democratic priorities.

Mary Murfit - Chair

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Town Chairs Committee

Brings together the chairs of each town-level Democratic committee across Columbia County. Coordinates communication and collaboration between local chapters, ensuring a unified and organized party presence throughout the county.

Chairs:

Joyce Thompson

Craig Dillon

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