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, earned a B.S in Biology at UNC–Chapel Hill, and completed Physician Assistant training at Methodist University. She works in Gastroenterology & Hepatology and serves as Chairwoman of NC Democratic Party County Party Chairs Association. Beth sits on the boards of I-CARE, Crosby Scholars, and the Can’t Win Victory Fund. She lives in southeastern Iredell County with her husband, Nick; stepchildren, Jack and Claire; and golden retrievers, Clifford and George. An avid runner, she has completed 27 marathons. She’s passionate about electing Democrats and growing the Iredell County Democratic Party.
First Vice Chair – Dustin Jett
A West Virginia native, Dustin moved to Iredell in 2019 with his husband, Tyler, and they live in Statesville with their three Miniature Schnauzers—Beau, Charlie, Maggie, and Hazel—and cat, Gus. He serves on the Statesville Stormwater Commission, ICATS Transportation Advisory Board, I-CARE Board, and Charlotte–Metrolina Labor Council, ensuring working people have a voice where it matters. Dustin is running for Statesville City Council (At-Large) on Smart Growth, Economic Fairness, and Inclusion—delivering responsive services and accountable leadership for every neighborhood.
Second Vice Chair – Clay Pittman
A Winston-Salem native, Clay got his start in Democratic politics with College Democrats at NC State, where he met his wife, Sarah Pittman (née Parker). He later worked in Communications for the North Carolina Democratic Party and managed Ernie Ward’s campaign for the North Carolina Senate. Passionate about environmental justice and fighting wealth inequality, Clay now practices criminal defense at Parker Law Offices. He and Sarah live in Statesville with their son, Miles, and their dog, Beasley.
Third Vice Chair – Gretchen McLean
A Mooresville native and Air Force veteran, Gretchen McLean is an executive assistant by trade and a volunteer campaign manager. She earned her B.S. in Business Administration from Montreat College and has been active in Democratic politics since volunteering for candidates as a high school senior. Gretchen has two grown children, Carson and Maclean. An avid reader, she loves time with family and friends and unwinds with her cat, Molly.
Treasurer – Allen Edwards
A Union County native, Allen earned his B.A. and M.D. from UNC–Chapel Hill and has practiced occupational medicine for nearly 35 years. He and his wife, Susan, live on the Catawba River in western Iredell County with their miniature dachshund, Gracie. A former Democratic candidate for N.C. House District 84 (2018), Allen brings a steady, service-driven approach to fiscal stewardship and transparency.
Secretary – Becky Houck
Originally from Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, Becky relocated to Mooresville in 1998 for her career and has spent 38 years in Information Technology in the banking industry. She lives near Lake Norman with her husband, Kris, and their rescue dog, Jypsea, and loves visits with their two grown daughters and six grandchildren. A lifelong Democrat, Becky started canvassing with her grandparents as a child and still knocks doors and volunteers on Election Day. She enjoys neighborhood walks and exploring North Carolina’s mountains and coast-and she’s passionate about changing the political landscape in Iredell County.