The Rock Island County Democratic Party is losing its leader. After eight years of serving as party chair, Doug House has decided not to run again. The democratic central committee will vote tomorrow on a replacement.
House says it was the right time to step back for his family and for the organization.
"To allow a fresh force at the front of the team, so to speak. You know, I worked the different ideas and avenues, and commitments that I had made to the Rock Island County Democratic Party to the fullest I could. I felt like a new set of hands, some younger leadership might help strengthen the organization, and help move it forward."
He's also worked hard to welcome everyone to the democratic party.
"[I'm most proud of] The diverseity of our candidates and the inclusiveness of our party. We ran nine women candidates, we have extensive involvement from the various constituencies of the party both in the minority communities, and the outreach that we do there. The partnerships that we share and the candidates that we run. We're a very tight-knit group and a very diverse group. I'm proud of that."
House says local democrats need to focus on bringing in new people, listening to them, and then providing opportunities to lead.
He is supporting Derek Jones to become the next Rock Island County democratic chair. He says that Jones is a "true believer" in the democratic values of social justice, equality, workers rights, and more.