Susan Swecker elected chair of Democratic Party of Virginia

The Democratic Party of Virginia elected a new chair on Friday, Susan Swecker of Richmond and Monterey. Swecker was confirmed on Friday evening and will immediately assume all duties of the position. She will be formally sworn in at the party’s next Central Committee meeting in June.

“From creating jobs to protecting the rights of all Virginians, Democrats have made incredible progress for the Commonwealth,” said Chairwoman Swecker. “Virginia will be in the spotlight nationally this year as we work to grow our numbers in the House of Delegates and take back the majority in the State Senate. And, of course, in 2016 we will campaign tirelessly to ensure that a Democrat continues to hold the Presidency. We have incredible opportunities ahead of us and I’m eager to continue moving Virginia forward.”

Swecker has a long history with the party, starting out as the 22-year-old Chair of Highland County and rising through the ranks to Executive Director. She currently serves as a Democratic National Committeewoman, serving on the Rules and Bylaws and Executive Committees. Her term as chair follows a successful year for the organization under the leadership of Mayor Dwight Jones, who oversaw the re-election of Senator Mark Warner — and the rest of the party’s Congressional delegation — despite a tough national climate for Democrats.

“I’ve known Susan for years and I am so pleased to pass the torch to such a wonderful Democrat,” said outgoing chair Mayor Dwight Jones. “I am extremely confident that she will use her decades of experience to build upon the progress made by our party. I have no doubt she will take it to new and exciting heights.”

“I’m thrilled to have Susan at the helm of the Democratic Party,” said Governor Terry McAuliffe. “She’s been a consistent and effective leader for many years; she knows our values and mission better than anyone. We have the opportunity to win key elections this fall to advance progressive policies to strengthen the middle class. Susan will be invaluable in harnessing the power of our grassroots to achieve common-sense solutions for Virginia.”