St. Marys, PA — With the 2026 midterm elections officially underway, the Elk County Democratic Committee is beginning the year with a renewed focus on organizing, outreach, and long-term planning. The Committee will hold its first meeting of the year on Wednesday, January 28, at 7:00 p.m. at its permanent headquarters, located at 210 Brusselles Street in downtown St. Marys.

Starting in January, the Committee will launch coordinated efforts centered on candidate recruitment, petition signature planning, grassroots fundraising, and the development of a clear, month-by-month strategy aimed at making 2026 a decisive year for Democrats. These efforts will focus not only on Elk County, but also on strengthening Democratic victories across Pennsylvania and the nation.

Committee leaders emphasized that meaningful political change often begins in rural communities—areas that have borne the brunt of harmful national policies in recent years. Rather than waiting for change to come from Washington, the Elk County Democratic Committee is committed to doing what Democrats have always done when democracy is at stake: organizing, mobilizing, and building power from the ground up.

The Committee’s goals for 2026 include reclaiming Democratic majorities in both chambers of Congress, as well as re-electing Pennsylvania’s Democratic governor and strengthening Democratic representation in the General Assembly. Locally, that means defending and expanding the Democratic majority in the Pennsylvania House and working to flip the Pennsylvania Senate, paving the way for the first fully Democratic legislature in more than a generation.

“This is a pivotal moment,” Committee leaders said. “The work ahead is ambitious, but achievable—if people engage and get involved.”

The meeting is open to all interested Democrats and community members. A remote Zoom option is available for all regular meetings. Those wishing to attend virtually are asked to request Zoom credentials at least 24 hours prior to the meeting to ensure availability. Requests will be accommodated up to approximately two hours before the meeting when possible. Zoom requests should be sent via email to elkcountydemocrats@gmail.com.