about us
Iredell county democratic party
As the oldest continuous political party in the world, the Democratic Party has carried out its commitment to freedom, fairness, human rights, and responsible government for over 200 years. We pledge to continue this tradition.
We take pride in our Democratic heritage as a party of spiritual and patriotic values; a party of inclusiveness; a party of diversity; a party of compassion; a party of educational and economic opportunities; a party of social justice; and a party of responsible leadership.
We provide an avenue for the free and open expression of diverse ideas and opinions, including the right of every person to dissent, and we shall work to promote government which is responsive to the legitimate needs, interests, and aspirations of every man, woman, and child in a manner which does not diminish human dignity or those fundamental rights, which are the birthright of all people of a free and democratic nation.
We, as North Carolina Democrats, seize this agenda, and vigilantly defend our historic Democratic heritage. We shall not abdicate our historic role as the Party of action and the Party of progress in this State. The lives and the livelihoods of the people of this State are our sacred trust. We must act decisively; we must act swiftly; we must act together.
County Leadership
Chair – Beth Kendall
Beth grew up in rural Wilkes County and then went to UNC Chapel Hill for her undergraduate degree and then Methodist University in Fayetteville for Physician Assistant School. She currently works in urgent care, as a PA, at various offices around the greater Charlotte region. Beth lives in southeastern Iredell County with her husband Nick, stepchildren Jack and Claire, and two golden retrievers, Clifford and George. Beth is an avid runner and CrossFitter, and she has finished 27 marathons.
Beth was the Democratic Candidate for Iredell County Commissioner in 2018. She is passionate about electing democrats.
First Vice Chair – Dustin Jett
Dustin is a native of West Virginia and a graduate of Roane County High School. He began his career as a 911 operator, serving in public safety for nine years before transitioning to the telecommunications industry in 2015. In 2019, he and his husband, Tyler, moved to Iredell County, North Carolina. Today, Dustin works as a Technician for a local telecommunications company in Mooresville. He lives in Statesville with Tyler, their three Miniature Schnauzers—Beau, Charlie, and Maggie—and their cat, Gus.
Dustin is a committed labor advocate and community leader. He serves as an officer in Communications Workers of America Local 3683 and as a delegate to the Charlotte Metrolina Labor Council, fighting for workers’ rights, fair wages, and dignity on the job. He also holds seats on the City of Statesville Stormwater Commission and the Iredell County Transportation Advisory Board, ensuring working-class voices are heard in local government. His priorities are clear: stand up for people, fight for equity, and build a more just future for everyone.
Dustin is ready to lead—with working people at the center of every decision.
Second Vice Chair – Clay Pittman
Clay is a native of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He became active in Democratic politics in the College Democrats at NC State University, where he met his wife Sarah Pittman (née Parker) . Clay has worked in Communications for the North Carolina Democratic Party, and managed the campaign of Ernie Ward for the North Carolina Senate. He is particularly passionate about environmental justice and fighting wealth inequality.
Third Vice Chair – Gretchen McLean
Gretchen is a proud native of Mooresville, where her roots run deep, and her commitment to the community is even stronger. As a U.S. Air Force veteran, Gretchen has consistently demonstrated a commitment to service—whether in uniform, as an Executive Assistant in her professional career, or through her active involvement in local politics.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Montreat College and approaches everything she does with both discipline and compassion. Gretchen’s political journey began early when she volunteered for Democratic candidates while still in high school. Today, she remains a passionate advocate for equity, integrity, and progress in her role as Third Vice Chair.
Gretchen is also a proud mother of two grown children, Carson and Maclean, who are her greatest joy and inspiration. In her free time, she enjoys diving into a good book, sharing laughs with family and friends, and relaxing at home with her faithful feline companion, Molly.
Treasurer – Allen Edwards
Allen R. Edwards is a native of Union County, North Carolina. He attended public school and earned degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and the UNC School of Medicine. He has practiced occupational medicine for over 30 years. He and his wife, Susan, live on the Catawba River in western Iredell County with their miniature dachshund, Gracie.
Dr. Edwards was the Democratic candidate for North Carolina House District 84 in the 2018 election.
Secretary