Precinct Chairs are Grassroots Leaders
What does a precinct chair do?
A Democratic Precinct Chair in Texas plays a significant role in the local political party organization. Precinct chairs are elected officials responsible for representing their respective political parties (in this case, the Democratic Party) at the most grassroots level—the precinct level.
Here's an explanation of the role of a Democratic Precinct Chair in Texas:
Precinct Representation: A precinct is the smallest political division in a county, typically representing a neighborhood or a small geographical area. Precinct Chairs are elected by registered Democratic voters within their specific precinct. Each precinct elects one chair.
Local Party Leadership: Precinct Chairs act as leaders and organizers within their precincts. They are responsible for engaging with local Democratic voters, volunteers, and party members. They often play a crucial role in grassroots activities, mobilizing voters, and increasing political participation.
Voter Outreach and Engagement: Precinct Chairs are tasked with building relationships with voters in their precinct. They may lead or support voter registration drives, organize canvassing efforts, and encourage voter turnout during elections.
Voter Registration: In McLennan County we ask that all Precinct Chairs become Deputy Voter Registrars, a simple process that requires a 20 minute visit to the County Elections Office.
Participation in County Executive Committee: Precinct Chairs are automatically members of the County Executive Committee (CEC), which is composed of all precinct chairs within the county. The CEC is responsible for governing the county party organization and making key decisions related to party operations. The McLennan County Democratic Party CEC currently meets monthly, usually the 3rd Monday of the month, for about 2 hours.
Primary Elections: During primary elections, Precinct Chairs help organize and administer the voting process within their precinct. They may also help recruit poll workers and election judges to ensure a smooth and fair primary election. In McLennan County, many precinct chairs choose to serve as Election Judges.
Overall, Democratic Precinct Chairs in Texas play a crucial role in building and organizing the party's grassroots efforts, increasing voter engagement, and representing their precincts within the larger county and state party structures.
What are the requirements for being a precinct chair?
Residency: You must be a resident of the precinct for which you intend to run as a Democratic precinct chair.
Voter Registration: You must be a registered voter in the precinct.
Election/Appointment: To become a precinct chair, you will want to file your candidacy with the county Democratic Party. Simply fill out a 1 page form and get it notarized at the party office. There is no filing fee when you file at the Party Office. The McLennan County Democratic party will process the form with the County Elections Office and the Secretary of State. Your name will not appear on the ballot unless you have an opponent. If you are unopposed, you will be declared elected when the vote is canvassed.
Many precinct chairs in McLennan County are appointed at first and then officially elected in the next primary election. The county democratic chairperson will make sure you get the appropriate paperwork and know the deadlines for submission.
How do I find out my precinct?
If you have your voter registration card, your precinct number will be listed on your card.
If you don’t have your registration card, you can visit: My Voter Portal (texas.gov). Enter your information as if you were checking to see if you are registered. When it returns your registration information, it will include your precinct number.
Who do I contact if I would like to be considered to be a precinct chair?
Contact County Democratic Chair: Mark Hays, (254)301-7648, mymcdp@gmail.com