From Staff Reports

 ASHEVILLE — The Buncombe County Democratic Party on April 26 re-elected Kristen Robinson as its chairwoman.

Prior to the election, Robinson wrote, “I’m running for re-election as chair of the Buncombe County Democratic Party because I believe in the work we’ve done — and I know there’s still more to do. 

“Over the few months, we’ve made real progress together. We’ve organized precincts that have historically been hard to reach, brought in new energy, and built stronger connections across our community.

“When I first stepped into this role, I knew we had a solid foundation — but I also saw the potential to grow. 

“Since then, we’ve more than doubled what was in the bank account, giving us the resources to support candidates, invest in organizing, and build the infrastructure we need to win. We even tackled long-overdue repairs and got a brand new roof on our headquarters — turning it into a space that’s reliable, welcoming, and ready for what’s next.

“I bring a mix of grassroots organizing, campaign strategy and a year-round commitment to building Democratic power here in Buncombe. 

“I try to lead with clarity, compassion, and action—and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished so far.

“I’d be honored to have your support again as we keep pushing forward. Let’s finish what we’ve started — together.”

Other BCDP board members elected on April 26 are the following:

• Ed Kramer, first chair

• Bridget Ferguson, second vice chair, training

• Terri Cude, third vice chair, communications

• Dana Stephenson, secretary

Regarding the aim of the BCDP, AI Overview stated on July 17:

“The goal of the Buncombe County Democratic Party is to strengthen the Democratic Party, serve the community, and elect Democratic candidates at all levels of government in Buncombe County and Western North Carolina. 

“They focus on issues like protecting democracy, improving the economy, strengthening education, promoting healthcare, and environmental protection....”

The BCDP’s “ideology” is listed on its website as “centrism, modern liberalism, progressivism.”

Regarding Buncombe for 2024, a BCDP chart of political parties on its website shows Unaffiliated at 89,121 registered voters; Democrats, 72,456; Republicans, 44,819; Libertarian, 1,641; No Labels, 159; and Green Party, 109. 

In the last presidential election, Joe Biden drubbed Donald Trump by about 21 percent of the vote in Buncombe County.