Why Dave?

In the year 2020, it seems hard to believe that there are only a handful of Democratic National Committee members who have a background or experience in campaign tech and security. It was just 4 years ago that we saw the outcome of our 2016 election impacted by a foreign actor through the use and manipulation of technology. Our technological challenges were also on center stage with the more recent disaster at the Iowa Caucus. Now more than ever, Democrats need to place a larger focus on technology and election security, and in order to so, the DNC needs more members who can bring this knowledge and expertise to the table. 

1. Younger, More Diverse Representation. A few months ago, a former DNC Chair said to me “Dave, the DNC needs more young people like you in its ranks.” I responded “Sir, it’s a sad state of affairs when someone in their early 40s is considered young.” We need to get our young people engaged in the Democratic party to start to build our bench of future leaders. Additionally, encouraging a diversity of voices to be a part of the conversation will not only make us a more inclusive party, but also ensure that our platforms and positions are more representative of all Americans. As such, I not only believe, but am committed to working to increase both diversity and youth representation within the DNC and DPVA’s leadership. I have pledged that if I am elected to the DNC, I will be publicly supporting a Virginia Young Dem, either female or person of color, to replace me as Vice-Chair.

2. Tech Experience. After the 2016 election, it goes without saying that the DNC needs more members who have a strong background and depth of knowledge in technology.  Tech and digital are now a cornerstone of modern campaigning, and will be even more important in 2020 when campaigning during a pandemic. How will the DNC be able to help our campaigns this November if the Committee members do not understand the role and importance of technology in these campaigns? Additionally, in the age of foreign nation-state actors seeking to interfere in our elections, tech and operational security have become necessary parts of running a modern campaign. We must have DNC members who not only know how to keep themselves secure, but are also able teach others to do the same.

3. Establish a Tech Committee. I believe it is long past time for the DNC to establish a Technology Committee with oversight of the DNC’s tech operations and staffing. As the current Democratic Party of Virginia Vice-Chair for Technology and Communications, I have seen first-hand how elevating the role of technology within the party structure is both essential and impactful. Additionally, Silicon Valley has recently become a huge source of fundraising dollars, and we need members and leadership who can effectively raise money from this sector.

4. Abolish State Presidential Caucuses. Running a truly secure state-level election today costs tens of millions of dollars. We are far beyond the time when a state party can fund and operate an election that truly reflects the will of the people it represents. The DNC must move, in advance of the 2024 presidential election cycle, to do away with state nominating caucuses. Not only are caucuses poorly representative and prone to disenfranchisement of large groups of individuals, but they are also also inaccurate and wrought with challenges. As we saw a few months ago in Iowa, our party cannot continue to point fingers when we know both the problem and the solution. The DNC needs to no longer allow for state presidential caucuses.

As you can see, I am running on a platform that is practical, rather than ideological. I am a hands on, hard working person who likes to recognize challenges and find solutions. As a long time campaigner and a tech professional, I know I can bring an edge of practical tech experience and leadership to the DNC, which I believe is so desperately needed.