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Democrats re-elect chairman Stallings, change caucus date

Contact:  Chuck Oxley   (208) 871-4976 (office)  

BOISE, Idaho – Idaho Democrats had a busy but fun-filled time this weekend as the state central committee selected Feb. 5, 2008, as the party’s new presidential caucus date. The committee also re-elected Richard Stallings to another 2-year term.

Previously, the caucus was in late February, long after the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary elections.

Moving the date to Feb. 5 puts Idaho in line with other western states to create a new “Super Tuesday” for the Rockies, along with Arizona, Utah, New Mexico and Colorado. Montana and a few other states are considering the move.

“This is an assertive political move by us and many of our neighbors that will raise the importance of western states in the presidential process,” Stallings said.

Democrats are on the move in the West, picking up governorships, Senate and Congressional seats, and turning state legislatures Democratic.

“No region in the country is better positioned to add crucial electoral votes to the Democratic column in 2008. That is far more likely to happen if Idaho and other Rocky Mountain state are able to play an appropriate role in the candidate selection process,” Stallings said.

Stallings, who has overseen the party’s resurgence in recent years, said he was honored and humbled by the support he received in his unchallenged bid for re-election. He praised DNC Chairman Howard Dean for his 50-State Strategy, which has allowed the Idaho Democratic Party to more than double its paid staff.

“The concept of rebuilding in all 50 states translates perfectly to Idaho. Over the next two years, I will be pushing for a 44-County Strategy. We do not want to cede any county to the Republicans without a fight,” Stallings said. 

“Over the next 18 months, we will identify and support new leaders, raise more money for campaigns and then execute our plan to win more elections,” he continued.