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 golden retriever Miles. 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 – Douglas Reed

Douglas grew up in St. Louis Missouri. He left St. Louis and attended Murray State University where he received a bachelor’s degree in Accounting. He moved to Iredell County when Lowe’s corporate office came calling. He currently works for Cataler North America in Lincolnton. Douglas loves relaxing and following the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. Douglas has lived in Iredell county with his wife since 2008.

Second Vice Chair – Bruce Anderson

Bruce is retired after a successful career as an outside salesman for electronic manufacturers, and was responsible for the Southeastern United States. Held Nemours low voltage & A/V certifications. 

He has served in a number of positions on a HOA executive board for a Charlotte community, including acting as president for a 279 home community, and held positions with business group connected to the Cabarrus County Chamber of Commerce.

As Second Vice Chair, Bruce organized 17 Iredall Precincts in 2019. He is the chair of Fallstown precinct, was the Iredell Ambassador for David Wilson Brown’s campaign, and aided Allen Edwards campaign for the NC House 84.

Looking to make a difference in Local, Congressional, and State elected officials with the following issues: Health care, education, infrastructure, voting rights and the environment.

 

Third Vice Chair – Gretchen McLean

Gretchen McLean is a Mooresville native.  She has two grown children, Carson and Maclean.  Gretchen is an Air Force Veteran, a graduate of Montreat College with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, and is currently an Executive Assistant for a software company based in New York and works from home.  

Gretchen has been active in politics since volunteering for Democratic candidates as a Senior in High School.  Her other volunteer activities include being a Girl Scout troop leader and creating and maintaining her son’s Boy Scout troop website for four years.  Gretchen is an avid reader who enjoys spending time with her family and friends and relaxes by cuddling with her cat, 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 – Becky Houck