‘Big energy, big turnout:’ Madison County Democrats kick off 2026 election season
Jenn Whitaker shares her reasons for pursuing the County Treasurer office at last Tuesday’s meeting of the Madison County Democrats.
The Democratic Party of Madison County hosted a meet-and-greet last Tuesday night, July 8, that drew more than 20 potential and declared candidates for the 2026 election. The event, held at the American Legion in Collinsville, was part informational meeting, part community-building session, designed to help local leaders get ready to run.
Attendees included individuals pursuing campaigns for county, state, and federal offices. Each introduced themselves to the executive committee and shared their reasons for pursuing public office. After meeting with the committee, candidates had a chance to connect directly with precinct committee people and longtime volunteers, building relationships that will serve them on the trail ahead.
“This was a great event,” said Party Chair Andrew Asadorian. “The interest, drive, and passion for public service we saw tonight was incredibly impressive. We will have excellent candidates on the ballot, and voters will have choices. These people are committed to their communities and ready to lead.”
The event is the first of several local efforts the Madison County Democrats are planning as they gear up for a busy and competitive election year.
All photos, credit to Doug May.
Lexy Schlemer-Dona, a candidate for Madison County Board District 5, stands next to Paul Davis, a candidate for Congress in IL-15.
Randy Raley, also a candidate for Congress in IL-15, shares his reasons for running.
Jennifer Todd, an IL-15 candidate for Congress, addresses the group.
County clerk says my voter registration card was marked undeliverable by Edwardsville Post office, and now my daughter and I both have to go prove that we still live in the same house we’ve lived in for 23 years. I find this suspicious