A Statement from Chair Austin Smith

Clark County Democrats, 

        The last month since the debate, the path forward for the Democratic Party has been questioned by media pundits, donors, Party “insiders”, activists and elected officials. Yesterday Sen. Sherrod Brown announced, after hearing from thousands of Ohioans with differing opinions, that he believes President Biden should not seek a second term. Frankly, this came as a shock to all of us. I have heard from many since the announcement who are angered or joyful by this, some who feel that they have to support one or the other and some who are confused as to why the announcement needed to take place. But the one commonality everyone so far I have heard from has shared, is the disappointment in the media circus that has brought us to this point. 

    While there is much uncertainty and speculation, let me make a few things clear. Joe Biden has had one of the most successful presidencies in modern history, and Senator Sherrod Brown has been a relentless advocate for working Ohioans his entire career. This announcement does not mean we have to choose one of the other.
We can and will still show our full support for our President and our presumptive nominee, as well as our Senator who are both facing tough re-election races this year. Both candidates are miles above their opponents, whether it be a convicted felon/sexual assaulter/insurrectionist, or a used car salesman who has lied about his past and stolen from his workers. 

     In one month I will be at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, as the only Clark Countian in attendance, a fact that I am honored and humbled by. I know I will be representing every Democrat in our county, and I want to hear from you. I want to hear your thoughts and feelings on the past few weeks and the path forward for the Democratic Party. Please call and leave a voicemail at 937-314-3343 or send an email to chair@clarkcountydems.org. 

     Lastly, in these times of turmoil, I encourage all of us to remind ourselves of why we are in this Party and why we are in this fight. We came to the Democratic Party because we believed in a better brighter future for all, especially for our families and loved ones. Spend some time over the next few days reflecting on why you are in this Party, but also make sure that you take a moment to pull away from the media circus and social media. 

 Have Hope,

Austin Smith

Chair of the Clark County Democratic Party