Brian McGinnis
As a dedicated New England Patriots’ fan, Brian McGinnis probably won’t like being compared to Pats’ nemesis Peyton Manning.
But McGinnis pulled a Manning (the quarterback who famously won the Super Bowl and then retired), this past week, announcing that he would go out on top, and not seek another term as chair of the Chester County Democratic Committee.
Under McGinnis, Democrats swept all four Row Office seats in 2017 — after not winning even one in more than 150 years in Chester County.
He made the surprise announcement to a packed auditorium filled with CCDC leadership last week that he would not seek a second term. New party leadership, to be voted upon in June, will continue the Democratic wave into November.
“I’m leaving the party in great shape financially and with a lot of momentum towards the 2018 elections,” McGinnis reflected after this week’s announcement of not running for a new four-year tenure.
Chesco Democrats are riding high on changing demographics and an increase in voter turnout. Their biggest move last year was the purchase of a permanent headquarters at 37 S. High Street in the heart of West Chester.
With a war chest of new donors and increased activism, McGinnis sees a great slate of quality statehouse candidates ready to break barriers, again, in Chester County. It’s only been a few months since CCDC shocked Republican neighbors with the historic sweep of four County Row offices. On the line this year are the Governor, Lt. Governor, US Senate and US Congress seats in addition to a dozen Harrisburg-bound slots.
“I’m very appreciative of the support of so many wonderful people within the organization,” added McGinnis. “This committee worked extremely hard regarding the history we made in 2017. This year and going forward to 2020 promise to be just as competitive and exciting.”
“I will stay active within the party as a fundraiser and liaison to building trades unions. I’m looking forward to a smooth transition to the new officers elected at our June reorganization meeting. I’m confident they will be able to build on the momentum that was created.”
As anyone who has run for office knows, the on-demand lifestyle is not easy. Working behind-the-scenes, as a party leader, is the same.
“I am very blessed to have my two biggest supporters by my side every step of the way in my Mom and Dad. Being in public life isn’t easy but they have kept me grounded. Their unconditional love and support was a big key in my success.”
McGinnis will continue to steer the county Democrats through the May primaries and oversee the June election of the next four-year administration.
