Local democracy doesn’t begin in Washington or Springfield. It begins closer to home — in positions most voters only notice at the bottom of the ballot. One of these is Democratic State Central Committeeperson.
It’s not a flashy role, but it’s an important one. Committeepersons help connect neighbors to the Democratic Party, organize locally, recruit future candidates, and make sure community voices don’t get lost once elections are over. When leadership vacancies arise, they help decide who steps in. That’s real influence — and it should reflect the values of the people who live here.
That’s why I’m supporting Tim Thomas for Democratic Committeeperson in Illinois’ 7th Congressional District.
I first met Tim in 2016, volunteering together on the Bernie Sanders campaign. Even then, what stood out wasn’t just his politics, but how seriously he took people — listening, organizing, and showing up consistently. That same approach guides his work here in Oak Park, including his service as Oak Park Township Supervisor.
Watching Tim engage locally helped inspire me to take a similar step — to run for the Oak Park Public Library Board and commit more deeply to public service. That path, from neighbor to volunteer to elected official, is one of Oak Park’s quiet strengths.
At a moment when many residents feel disconnected from politics, this role matters more than ever. A Democratic committeeperson should be someone who builds participation between elections, not just during them. It’s the only way Democrats can build an enduring legacy.
For Oak Park and the broader 7th District, Tim Thomas brings that spirit. And our local democracy will be better for it.
Colin Bird-Martinez
Oak Park