Moore recommends Ulman as new state Democratic Party chair – Maryland Matters

Gov. Wes Moore is recommending Ken Ulman to succeed Yvette Lewis as the next chair of the Maryland Democratic Party.

Moore, in a letter sent to party officials, recommended Ulman, the former Howard County executive, to lead the party.

“For the past 20 years, Ken Ulman has been a leader in our state,” wrote Moore. “From 2002 to 2006, he served on the Howard County Council, and was then elected to Howard County Executive, where he served two terms. Ken rightfully earned a reputation for a leadership style that blends innovation and common sense. His consistent north star was providing the most efficient and effective government services possible. During his time in public office, Ken took Maryland’s sixth-largest jurisdiction to new heights in education, healthcare, environmental protection, and economic development.”

The governor also recommended Charlene Dukes as first vide chair. Dukes, who holds a doctorate in education, was the first woman to be president of Prince George’s Community College.

Moore, in the letter, wrote that “recommendation to this committee is not something I take lightly. We need service-minded leaders who will work in partnership with our elected officials, party infrastructure, and most importantly, all of Maryland’s Democrats from every corner of this state. As we head into a historic election season, where everything from abortion rights to economic freedoms to public safety will be on the ballot, we need and deserve leaders who are not only up to the task, but excited to take on the challenge and prove once again that Maryland is unafraid to stand on the frontlines in the fight for democracy.”

A spokesperson for the party was not immediately available for comment.

The recommendations were endorsed Monday morning by Democratic U.S. Sens. Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen during a Monday morning call with elected leaders, according to a Moore campaign spokesperson.

“I am thrilled by Governor Moore’s decision to appoint Ken Ulman as Chair and Dr. Charlene Dukes as Vice-Chair of the Maryland Democratic Party,” said Congressman Steny H. Hoyer. “I know Ken and Charlene well, both of whom have deep political roots in our state, sharp political instincts, and will be assets for the party. I am excited for the future of the Maryland Democratic Party with these capable leaders at the helm.”

Ulman, if approved by the party, will succeed Lewis, who announced one month ago that she was stepping down from her second stint leading the party.

“As everyone knows, I am someone who cares deeply about our party, which is why I’m so excited by Governor Moore’s recommendations of Ken Ulman and Dr. Charlene Dukes,” Lewis said in a statement. “Both are leaders in their respective communities and are committed to not only firing up our base but also growing our Party. We all know what’s at stake this election. We will require much of our leaders, and I know these exceptional individuals are up to the task. I look forward to working in partnership with them both and thank the Governor for his leadership during this transition.”

This story will be updated.

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