Travis County Democratic Party Chair Steps Down

Pooja Sethi, Chair of the Travis County Democratic Party, announced she will step down from her position on June 21. In a letter to Travis County Democrats, Chair Sethi explained that her departure had been part of her original plan when she accepted the role, committing to serve through the 2024 election cycle and Texas legislative session.

"From day one, it was understood that I would step down at the end of that timeline," she wrote. "While session isn't quite over, I will see this work through until the last vote is cast and the last rally is held."

Chair Sethi will officially resign during the party’s next County Executive Committee (CEC) meeting in May. An election to select her successor will be held on June 21, with the filing window open from May 19 to May 30.

Reflecting on her time as chair, she celebrated several major accomplishments under her leadership, including raising over $1.1 million, flipping a city council seat from red to blue, and securing funding victories for public schools and affordable childcare.

"Together, we've built something powerful," she wrote.

She expressed deep gratitude to her staff, volunteers, and grassroots leaders, saying, "You work with heart, purpose, and unshakable commitment. I appreciate you greatly."

She also thanked Democratic elected officials and supporters who "knocked a door, gave a dollar, or raised their voice."

Though she’s stepping down from leading Travis County Democrats, she emphasized that she will remain engaged in the party’s work.

"I may be stepping down as Chair, but I'm not stepping away from the work. We still have a town hall on May 3, more rallies to lead, and testimony to give," she vowed, calling it “the honor of a lifetime.”

The departure comes after Democrats look to rebrand in light of legislative losses in the 2024 presidential elections.