Why am I a Democrat?
Katie Evans
Represents East Buffalo Township & Serves as Township Supervisor
Why am I a Democrat?
In my senior year in high school, I had a POD (Problems of Democracy) class where we read multiple books about current issues. THE OTHER AMERICA by Michael Harrington, which is about poverty in America, made a lasting impression. The events of the 70s further raised my interest in politics, and it has never waned. I am the only Democrat in my family.
How have I worked as an active member?
In the early 2000s, I became a member of the Union County Dems and did phone banking. After a long hiatus, I became active again when Obama ran for the presidency. I ran against David Rowe in 2020 and ran successfully for Township Supervisor in 2022.
Linda Godfrey
Represents Union Township
Why am I a Democrat?
I have been a Democrat ever since I was eligible to vote. For the most part, I believe that Democrats truly want to help improve the lives of all Americans, and I am confident that Democrats are working to preserve democracy.
How have I worked as an active member?
I have worked with the Union County Democratic Committee by assisting with scheduling of office volunteers, as an office volunteer, a poll greeter, and a poll watcher.
Dan Greak
Represents Union Township
Why am I a Democrat?
I am a Democrat because I care about helping people, and the Democrats are committed to everyone. Democrats are for the people and not the corporations.
How have I worked as an active member?
I help with events, logistics, sound systems, and supporting Union Township.
Dave Jacobson
Serves as Committee Treasurer
Why am I a Democrat?
I believe that Americans should have an equal shot at life, and the Democratic Party is the best party to make this happen.
How have I worked as an active member?
As treasurer, I write checks to pay bills, deposit donations, reconcile bank statements, write and file campaign finance reports, create budgets, and I am involved in executive committee discussions and decisions.
Shari Jacobson
Serves as Committee Chair
Why am I a Democrat?
As the daughter, stepdaughter, and niece of veterans, and as an American who proudly served our country for two years in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, I am a Democrat because this party advocates for jobs that pay a living wage, health care that is accessible and affordable, and the freedom of all Americans to determine how to manage their bodies and their health care.
How have I worked as an active member?
As chair, I oversee and support the work of our Elections, Events, Communications, Tools and Technology, and Budget and Fundraising teams. Prior to becoming chair, I organized our 2022 Get Out the Vote team.
Gary Kendall
Serves as a Member of Events Committee
Why am I a Democrat?
Most Americans want 1) affordable healthcare, 2) sensible gun laws, 3) a protected environment, 4) bodily autonomy, and 5) strong action to combat climate chaos. Our government rarely (if ever) takes meaningful steps toward these goals primarily because most Republican politicians answer to the donor class instead of the working class, and they put private interests ahead of the public good.
How have I worked as an active member?
As a member of the Events Committee, I do whatever I can to help plan and facilitate fundraisers, watch parties, parades, picnics, etc.
Dave Kyle
Represents White Deer Township Precinct 2
Why am I a Democrat?
As a former public school teacher, a union member for over 56 years, and having worked many years as a labor negotiator, I am proud to be a member of a political party that supports public education and advocates for working-class Americans.
How have I worked as an active member?
I am currently a part of the Letters to Editors (LTE) group. Our goal is to disseminate Democratic policies and accomplishments to the general public through the print news media.
Ken Landis
Represents Kelly Township, Precinct 1
Why am I a Democrat?
To represent at the grassroots of “We the People” by serving a small part of our government with the political party that serves ALL THE PEOPLE, the Democratic Party. This is where the very start of this great country began, and I’m proud to be part of it all.
How have I worked as an active member?
I have and still serve on the events committee to help organize events to raise money and to participate in events to allow exposure of our candidates like parades, fairs, or anywhere we can bring our fair and just message to the public.
Gibson O’Mealy
Member of the Youth Division of the Union County Democratic Committee
Why am I a Democrat?
Not only do I identify as a Democrat, but I’m a proud one. As a party, we have accomplished monumental achievements – from voting rights to affordable healthcare to essential poverty reduction programs. We continue to champion these initiatives, and I’m here to ensure we deliver.
How have I worked as an active member?
I volunteer on campaigns, canvass around the county, and do so much more.
Rick Thomas
PA State Democratic Committee Representative from Union County
Why am I a Democrat?
I have been a Democrat my entire life, most likely because the rest of my family have been lifelong Republicans. My activism was based in my union and labor membership since the 1970s, and I was initially a more moderate, pragmatic Democrat. But as we’ve faced more and more challenges in recent years, it’s become clear to me that the idea of partnering with diverse groups in order to protect and preserve the rights we ALL mutually enjoy should be a critical part of our activism.
How have I worked as an active member?
I was the State Committee Rep in the 1990s for a couple of terms and then became the County Chair about 20 years ago. In 2022, I gave up the Chair’s position but continue to serve as the State Committee Rep today. I am a member of the PA State Committee’s Executive Committee (23rd Senate District), and I’m the Vice-Chair of the North Central Caucus. My role within the local party is diverse, working in a variety of roles when/where needed, but primarily helping with organizing election activities (placing campaign signs, organizing poll volunteers, etc.).
John Timbrell
Represents Buffalo Township, Precinct 1
Why am I a Democrat?
I am a Democrat because it is the party of inclusion and democracy. The Democrats support civil rights, working people, and equality under the law.
How have I worked as an active member?
I have helped staff the office and participated in the Pride & Juneteenth celebrations.
Maggie Waggoner
Why am I a Democrat?
I am a Democrat because it is the party of inclusiveness, looks out for the people, and tells the truth.
How have I worked as an active member?
I write letters to the editor, canvass, and share information while staffing the office. I do anything I can to elect Democrats!