A message from the chair: Democracy needs your participation

Last year was an important time for the Brunswick County Democrat Party. We began 2025 committed to leading Democrats forward after the 2024 election. We also needed to prepare for that year’s municipal elections and the battle we knew was brewing over the crucial 2026 midterms.

We succeeded beyond our expectations. By the end of the year, Democrats in Brunswick County were mobilizing support for the growing resistance. Our social media presence blossomed, our bank account grew and our cadre of volunteers increased almost daily. Our well-attended rallies reflected deep concerns about the direction our country’s leaders were taking us. Our homes, community and environment were threatened. Democracy was threatened, and Democrats were the only major political party defending it.

In November of 2025, the green shoots of hope emerged. Democrats won two governorships in New Jersey and Virginia. In our state, Democrats won a majority of the open municipal seats across North Carolina in off-year elections, including 12 in Brunswick County. Clearly, the Democratic Party was on the rise.

These are encouraging signs. But much work remains to be done if we are to win in 2026. BCDP has recruited an excellent slate of candidates for the midterm elections, but they need your support if they are to succeed.

Two years ago, Brunswick County Republican candidates marshalled significant resources in their bids to maintain their seats, and there’s no reason to believe they won’t do so again this year. In 2024, State Senator Bill Rabon raised $720,526, while State Assembly delegates Frank Iler and Charlie Miller collected $54,876 and $258,249 respectively. Rep. David Rouzer accepted almost $1.8 million in campaign contributions for his 2024 campaign.

Money isn’t our candidates’ only need. Successful campaigns thrive on people power. Campaigns need volunteers to spread the word among neighbors and friends, make phone calls, mail postcards and knock on doors. Perhaps you can’t contribute financially to the candidates you favor, but your time is equally important.

The objective? Force our opponents into the open. Make them defend their extremist records and their involvement in a corrupt political organization that openly denies your rights and freedom. Defeat them at the ballot box with better ideas, integrity, and a love of democracy. We can do that with your support and your participation.

Consider working for Democracy in 2026. You won’t regret it.

Shelley Allen, Chair

Brunswick County Democratic Party