In 2005 the Saratoga Springs Democratic Party was strong, had raised more money than ever before and had a dynamic leadership team resulting in an historic 7 out of 7 election victories. We won all 5 City Council offices and both County Supervisor seats. This unprecedented victory took place under Shawn Thompson's leadership of the local Committee.

After that amazing win, the leadership team of the Democratic Committee along with Shawn, (having served for 6 years as Chair), decided it was time to move on and allow the Committee to unite under new leadership. It was assumed in good faith that the party would strengthen and capitalize upon our wins, and our officials would be securely positioned to enact the Democratic platform and issues.

- Sharon Boyd was elected the new chair of the Saratoga Springs Democratic Committee and shortly thereafter, her husband Gordon Boyd decided to challenge the current Democratic Mayor, Valerie Keehn.

- there were numerous actions in the Committee that were highly unsupportive of some of our elected officials (documented in meeting minutes)

- Sharon Boyd reluctantly stepped down as chair (conflict of interest) and Lou Schneider took over the chairmanship

- Lou Schneider was ineffective in holding the attacks on elected Democrats in check

- Gordon Boyd lost the Democratic Primary but continued to campaign on other lines and functioned as a spoiler in the Mayoral race

In 2007, we lost 4 out of our 7 seats. We are once again in the minority on City Council.

The simple fact is that the group that took over after the 2005 victory squandered our advantage, and now, with this election, they are trying to defeat Shawn Thompson and all the committed and enthusiastic Democrats he brought on board. They want to take all 50 committee seats. If they get control now, they will keep it for years.

That is why Democrats for Change has formed, and is running our own slate of candidates (click to see our list and bios). We want a real Democratic Committee that truly represents the voters, that finds great candidates, and supports them in office and holds them accountable.

You've seen the results of having our opponents in charge. It's clear who this group is made of -- and what's really going on -- when you look at their names (click to see Our opponents page).

Saratoga Springs
Election District map