SARASOTA, Fla. — Jan. 2, 2025 — The Sarasota County Democratic Party (SCDP) proudly announces its newly elected officers and representatives, dynamic leaders who will guide the Party in advancing advocacy, engagement, and growth.
Daniel Kuether – Chair
Re-elected to a second term, Daniel Kuether leads the Party with a focus on connecting with voters and empowering the community. As a Product Designer and dual MA/MBA candidate at Johns Hopkins University and the Maryland Institute College of Art, Kuether brings professional expertise and innovative vision to his role.
Re-elected to a second term, Daniel Kuether leads the Party with a focus on connecting with voters and empowering the community. As a Product Designer and dual MA/MBA candidate at Johns Hopkins University and the Maryland Institute College of Art, Kuether brings professional expertise and innovative vision to his role.
Mary Clupper – Vice Chair
Mary Clupper, a long-time Sarasota resident and former Democratic Club of Sarasota president, leverages over a decade of grassroots organizing, civic leadership, and fundraising experience to drive the Party’s initiatives. Since her involvement in Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign, Clupper has inspired action and reform within the Democratic Party.
Mary Clupper, a long-time Sarasota resident and former Democratic Club of Sarasota president, leverages over a decade of grassroots organizing, civic leadership, and fundraising experience to drive the Party’s initiatives. Since her involvement in Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign, Clupper has inspired action and reform within the Democratic Party.
JoAnne DeVries – Treasurer
JoAnne DeVries returns to leadership as treasurer after serving as SCDP chair from 2016 to 2022. Her strategic leadership has significantly boosted voter turnout, volunteer engagement, and civic participation across Sarasota County.
JoAnne DeVries returns to leadership as treasurer after serving as SCDP chair from 2016 to 2022. Her strategic leadership has significantly boosted voter turnout, volunteer engagement, and civic participation across Sarasota County.
David Dean – Secretary
David Dean, a dedicated volunteer and precinct captain, takes on the role of secretary. Alongside his wife Jackie, Dean has supported early voting initiatives and plans to strengthen precinct organization and community outreach.
David Dean, a dedicated volunteer and precinct captain, takes on the role of secretary. Alongside his wife Jackie, Dean has supported early voting initiatives and plans to strengthen precinct organization and community outreach.
Elected as State Committee Members:
Joe Agostine: Advocates for inclusion and equity as director of Region 6 for the Florida state LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus and co-host of The People’s Politics radio show.
Lou Grossman: Draws on decades of public relations experience and activism in local, state, and national campaigns.
Barbara Katz: Combines expertise as a former SCDP vice chair and treasurer with a proven track record in voter protection and grassroots mobilization.
Sebastian Martinez: Champions voter education, civic engagement, and Hispanic issues while empowering Gen Z leaders.
Dee McFarland: Builds bridges across Sarasota’s diverse communities as a retired human resources manager and founder of the Sarasota Democratic Black Caucus.
Sarah Parker: Advocates for reproductive healthcare, equality, and social justice as executive director of Voices of Florida.
August Rey: Promotes youth advocacy and reproductive justice as a college student and activist for student rights.
Robin Williams: Advances public education and community engagement as a retired educator and labor activist.
A vision for the future
The SCDP remains committed to advocating for justice, equality, and opportunity while championing qualified candidates who uphold these values. This talented and diverse team will lead efforts to build grassroots coalitions, inspire voter participation, and promote policies that strengthen both the community and democracy. The new leadership of the SCDP reflects a broad range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, underscoring the Party’s commitment to inclusion and representation. From advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and reproductive justice to seasoned community organizers, this team brings valuable expertise and a deep understanding of issues important to Sarasota residents. Their diversity enhances the Party’s ability to build coalitions across communities, ensuring that all voices are heard and represented in the fight for justice, equality, and opportunity. This aligns with the SCDP’s mission to create a democratic environment where everyone has a voice.
