Sterling Sanders Withdraws from Local Democrat Central Committee Race to Launch ‘Elect Better Leaders’ PAC

Sterling Sanders has announced his withdrawal from the Washington County Democratic Central Committee race, shifting his focus to the establishment of a new political action committee named “Elect Better Leaders PAC.” This strategic move comes in response to the formation of an opposing slate of six candidates within the local Democratic Party, which Sanders believes would under-represent younger voters and more progressive values.

Sanders had initially sought a position on the committee, aiming to foster a more inclusive and productive environment within the Washington County Democratic Party. However, he expressed concerns that the prevailing political dynamics would make his involvement on the committee counterproductive. He stated that the newly formed slate of moderate Democrats indicated a likelihood of more progressive agendas being met with resistance, with his own voice potentially being blocked, diluted, or silenced. Rather than dedicating his energy to internal party disputes, Sanders has opted to pursue a different strategy for enacting change.

“Let me be clear: this is not a retreat,” said Sanders. “It’s a strategy shift. If the establishment doesn’t want to make room for bold leadership, we build something stronger alongside it.”

The Elect Better Leaders PAC, as described by Sanders, represents a strategic evolution rather than an abandonment of his political goals. This new organization is designed to circumvent perceived establishment obstacles and to cultivate a stronger political movement from within. The PAC’s primary objective will be to raise funds to support the candidacies of individuals committed to progressive ideals in local, county, and state legislative elections. Sanders emphasized that these levels of government have the most direct impact on the daily lives of residents.

The key focus area for the Elect Better Leaders PAC will be addressing pressing local issues, with homelessness being specifically highlighted. Sanders pointed to the current lack of year-round shelter facilities in Washington County as an example of leadership shortcomings. The PAC intends to provide support and resources to existing non-profit organizations that are actively working to combat homelessness by endorsing local political candidates and taking stances on ordinance and law proposals that will provide solutions to the mission of ending homelessness.

Elect Better Leaders PAC supports candidates running for local and state legislative positions in Maryland who demonstrate integrity, competence, and a commitment to localized public service. Our mission is to raise the standard for leadership by electing problem-solvers who govern in the public interest.

“Real change doesn’t come from waiting our turn—it comes from organizing, investing, and showing up,” according to Sanders.

Prior to this strategic shift, Sanders had outlined a vision for reforming the local Democratic Party. His earlier campaign emphasized inclusivity and aimed to bridge what he characterized as a division within the party between a “corporate establishment wing” and the emerging Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) presence in Hagerstown. He had observed that neither the far-left nor more conservative voices within the party felt adequately represented. Sanders had advocated for an environment that encouraged open dialogue and the identification of common ground, believing that people in Washington County deserve representatives who reflect a diverse range of political beliefs.

Sanders’ original platform for the central committee included several key proposals. These involved structural reforms such as establishing local caucus groups and subcommittees dedicated to specific issues like LGBTQ+ rights or organized labor, with the aim of empowering community members and delegating responsibilities for voter outreach and fundraising. He also proposed improvements to candidate vetting processes, emphasizing better education for potential candidates to ensure they fully understand the roles and jurisdictions associated with the offices they seek, particularly for state legislative positions. Furthermore, his platform strongly advocated for supporting local labor unions, a stance that garnered him an endorsement from the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, a significant achievement for a central committee candidate.

Sanders, who has a history of political engagement, including previous runs for County Commissioner in 2018 as a Green Party candidate and in 2022 as a Democrat, is positioning himself as an activist focused on broader political transformation. While he respects the current Washington County Democratic Central Committee, he believes a more proactive approach is necessary to enhance the party’s presence beyond Hagerstown. Sanders remains dedicated to his overarching goal of revitalizing the Washington County Democratic Party, aiming to make it a model that the National Democratic National Committee would admire and aspire to emulate. He expressed a belief that significant change is achieved through proactive organizing, investment, and engagement rather than passively waiting for opportunities.

“Since the language of the party politics is what it is, I have to do this,” said Sanders. “The relationship with the committee wasn’t going to be a reasonable relationship.”

The Elect Better Leaders PAC is available on Facebook, and actively seeking participants.

Article by Ken Buckler, based upon information from Sterling Sanders interview.

Video Spotlight