As the Florida Democratic Party re-organizes many voices are coming together to chart a new path forward.

In Palm Beach County, Deidre Newton is part of that process. Newton was elected recently to serve as state committeewoman for the Palm Beach County Democratic Party.

“Politics as usual is out the window,” said Newton in a telephone conversation with SFGN. “We must give people a reason to vote. We can do better and that requires looking inward and outward.”

A realtor, Newton was selected to SFGN’s first Out 50 issue in 2014. She is engaged to partner Debbie Frazier and keenly understands how a Trump administration filled with anti-LGBT advocates hits home.
“It could change how everything affects our families,” Newton said.

A fourth generation Floridian, Newton said the 2000 Presidential recount in Florida inspired her to get involved in politics. Fast forward to present day and the Florida Democratic Party is set to convene its reorganizational meeting Jan. 14 in Orlando.

There are many challenges ahead -- chiefly fielding a slate of candidates to compete in the 2018 midterm elections.

“Nothing is the same,” Newton said. “It’s not just retail politics anymore. I’m very aware of what needs to happen to be relevant. People want to be heard.”

Democrats have not occupied the Governor’s mansion in Tallahassee since Buddy MacKay left in 1999. In addition to the Governor, Republicans hold all executive cabinet positions and own commanding control in the House (79 to 41) and Senate (25 to 15).