The Democratic National Committee (DNC) is confronting internal conflict as Vice Chair David Hogg faces a potential ousting due to a challenge citing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) concerns. Kalyn Free, a Native American DNC member who lost the vice chair race to Hogg in February, has filed a complaint alleging that the election was discriminatory toward women of color. The DNC is scheduled to meet virtually on May 12 to consider this challenge.
Free’s complaint calls for the DNC to vacate the vice chair positions and conduct new elections, asserting that the previous election “violated the DNC Charter and discriminated against three women of color candidates.” This development adds to the existing tensions within the party, as Hogg has also drawn criticism for his plans to invest $20 million through his organization, Leaders We Deserve, to support primary challenges against incumbent Democrats he deems ineffective.
DNC Chair Ken Martin has emphasized the importance of neutrality among party officers in primary elections, suggesting that Hogg’s actions are incompatible with his leadership role. Martin has proposed a rule change requiring DNC officers to remain neutral in Democratic primaries, which, if approved, could force Hogg to choose between his vice chair position and his advocacy efforts.
Longtime Democratic strategist James Carville has also criticized Hogg’s approach, stating that his dual role as a party officer and activist presents a conflict of interest. Carville suggested that the DNC should consider legal action if Hogg continues to support challenges against incumbent Democrats from within the party’s leadership.
The outcome of the May 12 meeting could have significant implications for the DNC’s leadership and its approach to internal party dynamics, particularly concerning DEI principles and the balance between progressive activism and party unity.
