WA Dem’s leader announces bid for DNC vice chair: ‘We’re clearly doing something right’

Shasti Conrad, chair of the Washington State Democratic Party, is campaigning for one of three vice-chair at-large positions within the Democratic National Committee, with elections scheduled for February 1. Following Washington's strong Democratic performance in the 2024 elections, which diverged from national trends, Conrad is positioned to share successful strategies with the DNC. She asserts that authenticity among candidates and policies aligned with voters' needs are crucial for effective leadership. Conrad critiques the Democratic Party's recent muddled messaging and emphasizes the importance of addressing economic issues that resonate with everyday Americans. Her personal experience, stemming from her mother’s healthcare struggles, motivates her drive for universal health care.

She argues that the Democratic Party must not abandon the progressive policies that resonate with constituents but instead amplify them. Conrad's identity as a woman of color and Millennial is framed as beneficial to the DNC's future direction. By sharing lessons learned from Washington's electoral success, she aims to foster a more inclusive and effective national party.