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Ken Martin, the longtime leader of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor (DFL) Party, has been elected as the new chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC). Martin secured 246.5 votes out of 428 from DNC members on Saturday (January 31), winning on the first ballot. His election comes as the Democratic Party seeks to recover from a challenging 2024 election cycle.
Martin, who has led the Minnesota DFL since 2011, emphasized party unity and a focus on opposing President Donald Trump in his acceptance speech.
"We have one team, the Democratic Party, and we have one fight. The fight’s not in here, it’s out there," Martin said.
He also highlighted the need to hold the Trump administration accountable and to support working families.
Martin's campaign for DNC chair focused on a new framework: Build to Win, Build to Expand, Build to Last. He aims to strengthen the party's infrastructure and improve its performance in elections at all levels. As reported by the Democratic National Committee, Martin said, "The Democratic Party is the party of working people, and it’s time to roll up our sleeves and outcompete everywhere."
Runner-up Ben Wikler, chairman of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, received 134.5 votes, while former Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley received 44 votes. Martin's victory was celebrated by DNC members, who chanted "Yes, we Ken!" after the results were announced.
Martin's extensive experience in party leadership and his commitment to grassroots organizing were key factors in his election. He plans to leverage his relationships and experience to help the Democratic Party regain its footing and prepare for future electoral challenges.
