Left to right: Robert Branscomb, Chair of the Arizona Democratic Party; Dr. Vicki Barber, President of the PebbleCreek Democratic Club; and Jim Sheard, Vice President (photo by Gillian Driscoll)
Gillian Driscoll
PebbleCreek Democratic Club was honored to have as their speaker in April the new Chair of the Arizona Democratic Party, Robert Branscomb. Newly elected this past January, Mr. Branscomb brings a wealth of experience in business, leadership, and small business ownership to the party. He represented Arizona as a delegate to the 2024 National Convention and is an active member of the Arizona Democrats Executive Committee. He also brings a wealth of experience in fundraising and public service, both qualities very much needed at the State level.
Mr. Branscomb told the club that he is in the process of transforming the state party and is actively searching for new ideas and new people. He believes that Democrats are too ready to allow others to define them and that they need to control the message. He stressed that our message needs to include “Listen to the people” and “We see you” in order to bring the party together working for the same goals. He believes that Democrats have been “too nice” and that we must fight for democracy. Under his leadership, the state party will be fighting to hold on to the seat left vacant by the recent death of longtime Representative Raul Manuel Grijalva and a lot of effort is going towards this goal.
In answer to questions from club members, Mr. Branscombe emphasized a number of points including that the state party is united but needs to be more transparent, that rural communities need to be strengthened, and that the base needs to be more secure. Many Democrats did not vote in the last election and this must be remedied. He recommended that we start work now and not wait until 2026.
Club members appreciated Mr. Branscomb’s visit and his message, especially as he promised to do more for the West side in the future and to be more equitable about the amount of support given to our candidates.
In May, the club meeting will focus on education and the issues and concerns surrounding the future of our schools and students. The speakers will be Nicky Indicavitch from Save Our Schools and Dr. Teresa Layba Ruiz, the Democratic Candidate for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction. We look forward to an informative evening with these two knowledgeable speakers.
The PebbleCreek Democratic Club meets on the first Wednesday of the month in the Tuscany Falls Ballroom. The social hour begins at 6 p.m. and the meeting starts at 6:45 p.m. Meetings are open and all are welcome.