WASHINGTON — The Democratic National Committee announced new officers elected during the DNC Winter Meeting in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 22.
Among them was Rep. Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii, who was named vice chair.
Gabbard is the first American Samoan and Hindu member of Congress, and along with Rep. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, she is also one of the first female combat veterans to serve in Congress.
“I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to serve in this new role,” said Gabbard. “I see this as a great opportunity to let Hawaii’s voice be heard on a national platform and to play a leadership role in bringing people together in communities all across the country, as we work towards our common goal of serving the people, and building a brighter future for our country.”
“Congresswoman Gabbard’s story is an inspiration and her dedication to public service showcases the best of our party’s values,” said Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Florida, who was re-elected DNC chair. “I look forward to serving with her both in the House of Representatives and as an officer at the DNC.”
Also elected vice chair was Maria Elena Durazo, known for her years of service as executive secretary–treasurer of the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor and her work as chair of the National AFL-CIO Immigration Committee.
The new secretary is Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and the new national finance chair is Henry R. Muñoz III, chairman of the board and chief creative officer of Muñoz & Company.
These officers will serve alongside the following officers who will continue serving in their current roles: Donna Brazile, vice chair, voter registration and participation; Minneapolis Mayor RT Rybak, vice chair; Raymond Buckley, vice chair; and Andrew Tobias, treasurer.
At the meeting, DNC members also honored the service of Alice Germond, who served as secretary; Jane Stetson, who served as national finance chair; and Rep. Mike Honda of San Jose and Linda Chavez-Thompson, who both served as vice chairs.
“I am excited to serve alongside my fellow DNC officers as we continue the critical work of rebuilding our great nation under the leadership of President Barack Obama, and forging a stronger and more vibrant Democratic Party,” said Schultz. “We are all committed to electing fair-minded leaders across the country who will support an agenda that continues to move this country forward.”