Dems picnic features state party leaders

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BROOKINGS – The newly chosen South Dakota Democratic Party leaders will speak to Brookings County Democrats at their picnic Thursday, Aug. 22, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Community Life Center, corner of Sixth Street and Seventh Avenue in Brookings.

Paul Hawks, chair, and Stacey Burnette, executive director, will discuss what’s ahead for the party in the 2020 election.  

Hawks is a former state legislator and was the state Democratic candidate for U.S. House in the 2016 election. She was elected South Dakota Democratic Party chair in March. She has been actively involved with the party for many years.  

Burnette also brings years of practice experience to her new role as executive director of the SDDP. She worked for the American Cancer Society before accepting her new job, and she was a staffer for Stephanie Herseth Sandlin during her time in Congress. She began her new job Aug. 5. 

In addition, Lee Ann Pierce will give an update on Brookings County Commission work. Brookings Dems Chair Mary Perpich will discuss the 2020 election as it relates to District 7.  

The picnic is a potluck. Attendees should bring a dish to pass. Beverages and table settings will be provided. 

There will also be door prizes and a straw poll of the Democratic presidential candidates.  

The event is free and open to the public. Contact Mary Perpich, perpichm@mchsi.com, with questions.