The Union County Democratic Committee (UCDC) has been recognized by one of the nation’s leading political action committees for the work they have done mobilizing citizens to run for office, empowering citizens to participate in the democratic process, and serving the community. As one of a handful of Democratic county committees across the country awarded a grant by Vote Save America, the Union County Democratic Committee is honored and eager to use the funding to expand their operation.
Union County was one of several rural counties in Pennsylvania to get “bluer” last year, delivering 1% more of the share of total votes to Kamala Harris in 2024 than they did to Joe Biden in 2020. “For too long, rural Americans have been underserved by the Republicans who represent us,” said Shari Jacobson, Chair of the UCDC, “and voters are starting to take notice.
Shrinking access to quality healthcare, a dearth of affordable housing, and the perpetual lack of broadband and cell service are telling voters that we need more options on the ballot.” In this year’s municipal elections, Union County voters will find at least 28 local Democrats running for various seats in voting precincts, municipalities, and school districts. Each is ready to deliver for constituents, and Vote Save America’s support will help the UCDC get out the vote for them.
The UCDC plans to use the grant to support a full-time, year-round office. Said Shaniqua McClendon, Head of Vote Save America and Vice President of Political Strategy at Crooked Media, “Vote Save America knows that lasting political change is built year-round and from the ground up. That’s why we’re proud to support organizations such as the Union County Democratic Committee, who are doing the hard, everyday work of building progressive power. Having a public-facing office will be more than a workspace; it will be a community anchor, a hub for organizing, and a visible commitment to the future we’re fighting for.”
Jacobson notes that the office will provide a space for the service committee to carry out its operations; the elections team to help get out the vote and run voter registration trainings; the high school and college Democrats to meet; and the events committee to organize gatherings. Long-range goals include developing skilled volunteers to help Union County residents fill in the gaps created by the Trump administration’s drastic cuts to our local support system.
Vote Save America is building a pro-democracy movement to last beyond any one election. They equip people at every level of civic and political engagement with the expertise, tools, and conviction necessary to be effective advocates for the democratic process. By empowering the next generation of leaders, volunteers, and donors; seeking out bold new ideas; and building a real community rooted in action and honest conversation, Vote Save America is not just fighting to win elections. Vote Save America is forging a more effective, resilient, and inclusive democracy.
UCDC Press Release (May 2025)