As a State Representative deeply committed to the principles of democracy and the empowerment of our communities, I am compelled to speak out against the recent actions of the Philadelphia Democratic City Committee chairman, Bob Brady, in expelling 13 democratically elected committee people from the 9th and 22nd wards. These wards are not only pillars of democratic participation but also crucial to the electoral strength of our city, especially as we approach a consequential presidential election.

The decision to expel these dedicated committee people, who have tirelessly worked to represent their communities and ensure robust voter engagement, is both unjust and damaging to the democratic process. All divisions of the expelled committee folk produced significantly higher turnout rates than the citywide average, every election cycle, since at least the 2021 primary. 

As we look toward the November ‘24 presidential election, every vote matters, especially in Philadelphia. The 200th legislative district that overlaps with both the 22nd and 9th wards, is the bluest district in the entire state, with nearly 5,000 more Democratic voters than the next highest performing district statewide. All four of the wards here are in the top 12 performing wards in Philadelphia — the city that delivered for Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania for Democrats and defeat for MAGA.

It is deeply troubling that instead of supporting these committed individuals who continuously produce some of the highest turnout rates in Philadelphia, the party leadership has chosen to cast them aside without due process. These committeepeople are not only advocates for their communities but also champions of progressive values and inclusivity within the Democratic Party.

Furthermore, the timing of these expulsions is particularly concerning as we confront the threats of facism and billionaires like Jeffery Yass influencing our elections; who injected significant sums of money into our municipal and state elections in Philly, aimed at attacking progressive candidates and undermining our democratic institutions. We cannot afford to alienate dedicated party members while facing such formidable opposition.

Bob Brady's willingness to sacrifice the voices of critically important grassroots organizers for the Democratic party in favor of maintaining municipal political power for pro-Trump Republicans ahead of November ‘24 is deeply troubling. It is evident that his priorities do not align with the values of inclusivity, democracy, and social justice that our party should uphold.

As a representative of the people, I stand in solidarity with the impacted committeepeople from the 9th and 22nd wards. I reject the divisive tactics employed by Bob Brady and reaffirm my commitment to supporting those who tirelessly advocate for the betterment of our communities.

I refuse to remain silent in the face of injustice and will continue to fight alongside our grassroots organizers, community leaders, and all those who seek to build a more equitable and inclusive society. Together, we will resist attempts to undermine our democratic values and ensure that the voices of every Philadelphian are heard and respected.

Ousted Divisions’ Turnout vs. Brady’s Ward & Citywide Turnout

Chris Rabb is a State Senator whose district covers Mt. Airy.