First of all, thank you to each of you who made 2023 such a strong year of coming together, tackling the work, and success! In harmony we achieved great things like:

• Changing our Ward structure to include 12 wards instead of the previous 3 allowing for greater participation and input across the county (under the leadership of former-Chair Pam Cordova)
• Participating in Social Justice actions to support our foundational belief in Women’s Health Care autonomy, PRIDE and our LGBTQIA+ community, stewardship of our water and natural resources, and equality for each and every person.
• The launch of DPVC Radio podcast. Check it out!
• Securing local election wins for 8 Dems!
• Successful recruitment and placement of poll watchers and workers for the local elections spearheaded by our Treasurer, Patricia Barlow!
• Fundraising that led to an 375% increase in our bank balance and 3x growth in our monthly recurring donors. Thank you!!
• The beginning of a Youth Voter Committee to ensure that our future leaders have a voice in the Party.
• Building strong coalitions and partnerships with other county parties and advocacy organizations.

It was a busy and productive year but we know that 2024 will be even more so with so many important races on the ballot. 

I want to personally thank the Executive Committee for their efforts and leadership, the folks who have stepped up to work hard to bring the Party together and provide invaluable information and assistance to me as your Chair (especially Sen. Michael Sanchez, Sen. Liz Stefanics, and former Chairs Pam Cordova, Logan Jeffers, and Joan Baker), the Valencia County Federation of Democratic Women now led by Linda Guenley and always a valued partner, the leadership of DPNM, and the many people who have taken my calls, texts, and emails asking for volunteers, donations, or just a chance to vent for a minute! 

Many many thanks and kudos to the 15 Democrats that put their names forward to run for public office. Your courage, strength, and tenacity to push for a stronger Valencia County is amazing and we are lucky to have you in our court.

Finally, the biggest thanks to our Vice Chair, George Colombo, the man that was on the receiving end of so many of my “what now??” calls, who is the voice and technician behind the podcast, who has made it his personal mission to meet every Dem in Valencia County (I kid but just a tiny bit), and who has been a staunch defender and advocate for our Party and our community. 

Thank you Valencia County Democrats, we will continue to move forward together towards a Blue future.

Summer Ludwig

Chair, DPVC