November Chairman's Message

By Richard (Dick) Jurgena

Chairman, MCGOP

As Chairman, I am so proud of the accomplishments of our Central Committee over the past 10 months.  While we have a long way to go to accomplish our goals of reelecting Governor Larry Hogan to a second term, electing at least two Montgomery County Republicans to the State Assembly, electing a county Republican to Congress, and electing Republicans to the County Council and Executive, I believe we have made substantial progress and are in better standing than we have been in years.

The tremendous turnout at our recent reception with Governor Hogan, orchestrated by our Second Vice-Chair Ann Hingston and her Events Committee, is, I believe, an indication that momentum is with us.   While the numbers are not in yet, we estimate that more than 300 guests attended or contributed to this event, helping us to reach beyond our budgeted goals and exceed expectations.  

The Maryland Party’s role in our efforts is further recognition of our progress. For the first time in recent memory, the State Party sees the possibility that Republicans can be elected in Montgomery County.   While all of our legislative districts have gained in membership and organization, thanks to the strong leadership of Greg Decker, our Organization Chair, and our LD-Chairs, the State Party has specifically identified LD-14 and LD-15 as districts providing the best opportunities to elect Republicans. They are willing to provide support.  And in view of our successful campaign that passed term limits with 70% of the vote, I believe we have a great chance to elect at least one Republican in county elections next year.

Thanks to our Candidate Recruitment Committee Chair Bill Richbourg and Dwight Patel, our First Vice-Chair, we have built an active program of recruiting and training candidates for the 2018 political races.  We already have some excellent candidates who have signed up and many others considering their options.

Still, we have a lot of work to do.  This month we will represent Montgomery County Republicans at the fall MDGOP Convention on Nov. 17-18. After that, our county Central Committee will hold its annual meeting to elect officers who will lead us through the 2018 election year.

Although our Central Committee is on sound financial footing, we need to raise a lot more in order to accomplish all our goals.  Soon you will receive a letter from me asking for your support to help the Central Committee elect Republicans in the county.  I know that some of you contribute your time and talents as well as your money, while others contribute time and talents because you are on a limited budget, as am I, so while I am asking everyone to contribute as much as possible, please consider a donation of at least $5.00 to help cover the cost of the mailing.

It is only with your help that we will continue to grow the Republican Party in Montgomery County, surprise the media, and stop One Party Rule.