NEWS: Louisiana Democratic Party Congratulates New DNC Chair Ken Martin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 1, 2025
CONTACT: ldpcommunications@lademo.org

LOUISIANA DEMOCRATIC PARTY CONGRATULATES NEW DNC CHAIR KEN MARTIN

Chair Gaines: “Ken is the leader we need now and for the future”

NATIONAL HARBOR, MD — Today, the voting members of the Democratic National Committee (DNC) elected Ken Martin as their new party Chair. Out of 428 votes cast, Martin achieved a resounding victory on the first ballot with 246 votes, or 57.5% of the vote. 

Ken Martin is a dedicated Democrat with decades of experience strengthening the party and fighting for working families. As outgoing Chairman of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party, President of the Association of State Democratic Committees (ASDC), and Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee, he has been a key leader in Democratic politics. His career began with Senator Paul Wellstone’s campaign in 1990, leading to roles in Minnesota and national politics, including organizing for the Clinton/Gore campaign and serving as Political & Field Director for the DFL.

A pro-labor progressive and experienced strategist, Ken led the successful Clean Water, Land, and Legacy Amendment campaign in 2008 and has consistently championed policies benefiting working families. With a strong track record in fundraising and grassroots organizing, he believes the Democratic Party must reconnect with working-class voters and effectively communicate its message. He brings proven leadership, deep party relationships, and a commitment to revitalizing Democratic engagement nationwide.

Louisiana’s five DNC members were all present and voting:

“We are excited and honored to welcome Ken Martin as the new Chair of the DNC,” said Randal Gaines, Louisiana Democratic Party Chair. ”It’s clear that Ken knows exactly how to grow our party’s vision and infrastructure, especially when it comes to supporting state parties. We need a leader who can connect with working-class voters, communicate our message more effectively, and restore faith in the party — and Ken is that leader we need now and for the future. Louisiana Democrats look forward to working with him to deliver Democratic wins for our state and beyond.” 

“I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Ken Martin over the past year, and I can say with absolute confidence that he is the best person to lead our party through this critical time for our country. Ken has the vision, the drive, and the heart to unite us all in standing up for what’s right,” said Katie Darling, Louisiana Democratic Party 1st Vice Chair.

“Congratulations to our newly elected DNC Chair Ken Martin. I know he will do what is necessary to ensure our party’s success in subsequent elections by focusing on those kitchen-table issues that impact all Americans!” said Rep. Kyle Green, Jr., Louisiana Democratic Party DNC Committeeman.

“Congratulations to Ken Martin on being elected as the new DNC Chair,” said Michele Johnson, Louisiana Democratic Party DNC Committeewoman. “I’m excited to watch him scale up his successes in Minnesota to states across the country, investing in ALL states (not just the swing states), and working with his office as we craft and execute a strategic plan for Louisiana.”

“If it weren’t for Ken Martin carrying the charter for High School Democrats to exist, I wouldn’t be a DNC member today. I’m ready to get to work with our newly elected Chair!” said Neal Tandon, High School Democrats of America Vice Chair.

The rest of the DNC’s new officers will be elected later today. Learn more about Ken Martin at kenforchair.com.

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