The Kansas Democratic Party has completed their search for the next executive director of the party, and the answer came from within. Kerry Gooch, formerly political director for the Kansas Democratic Party is to be named Executive Director and begin work to help right the Kansas Ship.
Melody Miller, Kansas Democratic Party Vice Chair, offered these words:
It is absolutely an important step for African Americans in our party but it doesn't stop there. Kerry is young, technologically wired and driven. He's politically astute, he's committed to the "big tent" concept. Kerry is familiar with operations at the administrative level as well as keenly aware of the need for and the logistical steps identified to put a grounds/grassroots campaign in play.
Kerry Gooch has had what could best be called a meteoric rise within the Kansas Democratic Party. Starting his career as office staff after completing a bachelors degree in 2013, Kerry quickly moved through the ranks, becoming Political Director and now Executive Director.
Kerry's signature work in the state has been in voter registration efforts, say party sources, who view registration and new voter recruitment essential to help build the party.
Something not mentioned by those who were interviewed on the subject matter is the surprising youth of the new Kansas Executive Director, who makes his way into the office well under 30.
The hire marks several firsts for Kansas Democrats, I'm told - not only in youth but in an outreach to the African American community. "This is a WOW moment." said Reuben Eckels, speaking of the history being made by the selection.
Still, many Democrats have chosen a wait and see attitude, noting that this represents a very tall task for Mr. Gooch, who walks into the position with minimal work in the strategy or planning of actual campaigns.
Of top concerns to Democrats around the state, fundraising and resources in advance of the 2016 election cycle rank high. This may be part of what was imagined. While promoting within has benefits of institutional knowledge, it also leaves positions empty or waiting to be filled.
The Kansas Democratic Party has no line item in the current budget for a communication director, but the loss of a political director will either open up a position.. or leave Kerry Gooch with two fewer members of staff than his predecessor. This may also be at the general wishes of the party, which continues to struggle with fundraising.
These tough choices are what naturally occur in an environment where fundraising can be tricky, especially in off years without a governor race at stake.
With a commitment to the future, the Kansas Democrats begin looking ahead to 2016 - with renewed hopes of success.