NKD strives to realize a new vision for Brooklyn politics. Our platform includes specific reforms starting at the grassroots level to establish a foundation for an honest and effective Democratic Party.
A Vibrant Kings County Committee
The Kings County Democratic Committee, the 5000 elected representatives of Brooklyn’s election districts, will be a training ground for emerging Brooklyn leaders. Through County Committee we will build the organizing infrastructure to mobilize Brooklynites and build a borough-wide progressive alliance by:
1. Activating Standing Committees, such as the Platform and Budget Committees of the Party.
2. Holding regular meetings – the County Committee currently only meets once every two years.
3. Recruit and train new committee members. New leadership and participation in the party
should be encouraged, not discouraged.
4. Establish a best practices guide for County Committee representatives. Becoming an elected
party leader can be a great platform for serving one’s community.
5. Register voters and encourage voter participation.
Prevent Future Corruption
3 of the last 4 County Bosses have been indicted for corruption but nothing has been done to clean up our party. The current structure consolidates too much power in the party boss and presents too many conflicts of interest. The independence of District Leaders is compromised by individuals concurrently serving in other elected positions.
Transparency in the Operations of the Brooklyn Democratic Party
The names of County Committee members, and the contributions, expenditures, and operating bylaws of the Brooklyn Democratic Party are unknown to the general public. This information must be listed on the Party’s website and updated regularly.
Quality and Fairness in the Selection of Judicial Candidates:
Judges should not be elected positions. Until this State level reform is realized, the Kings County Democratic Party should be mandated to follow the recommendations of an Independent Judicial Election Qualifications Commission.
Accountability and Competence from our Brooklyn Elected Officials
Every Brooklyn Elected Official should work with local County Committee representatives to hold (bi)monthly town hall meetings in varying parts of their district to improve dialogue with constituents and directly engage with community priorities. The Brooklyn Democratic Party must be willing to challenge inadequate incumbents.