The Democratic Party’s greatest asset is its people, and this will only become more apparent in the 2012 election and beyond. In order to provide the most support to our Democratic candidates, it is essential that our party structure remains strong, intact and engaged. Many county parties are focusing on membership recruitment in 2011 to ensure the strongest presence possible in 2012.

Clear, concise messaging, publicity and a strong communication structure (both inside and outside the party) are the backbone of any organization. Each local party should have a network of responders to activate both in election and non-election years to push pro- Democratic Party messaging. Additionally, having a strong presence in a county can be as simple as publicizing activities and inviting members of the local media to cover those events.

Ours is often called the “big tent” party when compared to other political groups and movements. In an effort to include as many voices as possible, we are seeking to create a strong statewide network for our constituency group leadership at the local and state levels. These groups include Youth, African-Americans, Latinos, Asians/Pacific Islanders, American Indians, Stonewall Democrats, Veterans and persons with disabilities. Additionally, each county should have an Affirmative Action Chair whose main goal is to ensure these relationships are built. Not every county will have the ability to recruit members from each of these groups, but strengthening relationships with those groups that do exist in your county is vital to the long term health of the organization at every level.

Maintaining a positive cash flow enables county parties to support local candidates, host events and commit funds to election efforts.

Social networking—both in-person and online—is an easy way to push pro-Democratic message points and peak interest in the local party and its activities.

The IDP offers the best voter database in the country, but making Votebuilder work for the party and not against is a challenge. When utilized to its fullest potential, Votebuilder is a one-stop data and list management tool. Please score your organization in the following categories, and tally the final total above.