NC Democrats choose former state representative as new leader

Bobbie Richardson is the new N.C. Democratic Party chair. Photo via NC Democrats

RALEIGH — At a state Democratic party meeting on Feb. 27, former state Rep. Bobbie Richardson was chosen as the party’s new chairwoman. Richardson is the first African American woman to serve as chair of the party, leading what the party says is one of the most diverse leadership teams in party history.

“I am honored that my fellow SEC members have chosen me to take on this important role and lead North Carolina Democrats as our party prepares for the 2022 midterm elections,” said Richardson. “Together, we’ll fight for a fairer, more just North Carolina, recruit candidates that reflect the diversity of our state, and organize everywhere to elect Democrats who will be champions for working families across our state.”

Richardson, who was the party’s vice chair in 2019-20, served three terms in the N.C. House of Representatives from 2012-2018, representing Franklin and Nash counties. She is a retired educator and administrator with 35 years of experience as an educator in North Carolina public schools.

“Serving this state and our party over the last four years has been one of my life’s greatest honors, but I know that North Carolina Democrats are in good hands with Bobbie,” said former Chair Wayne Goodwin. “With her at the helm, North Carolina Democrats’ best days are ahead. Together, we will carry the fight forward for a brighter future for our state.”

Also elected on Saturday was former Sen. Floyd McKissick as the party’s first vice chairman. McKissick, who served for 13 years in the N.C. Senate, resigned after being appointed by Gov. Roy Cooper to the N.C. Utilities Commission in 2019.