Nikita Richards steps down as leader of McLean County Democrats

Posted on November 30, 2020
Nikita Richards (Photo courtesy: Heart of Illinois ABC)

By Heart of Illinois ABC

BLOOMINGTON – The chair of the McLean County Democratic Party is stepping down after seven months in that position.

Nikita Richards said in a statement that her resignation is effective immediately, citing family commitments and her new job as the City of Bloomington’s community relations manager as reasons for the change.

“We fought hard for our values and led with our hearts, integrity and logic for the betterment of our community,” said Richards. “But now, it is time for someone new to take the reins,” she added.

Under her leadership, McLean County voters chose Democrat Joe Biden over Republican Donald Trump in this month’s presidential election.

Democrats also gained two McLean County Board seats, but Republicans retain a narrow 11-9 majority on the board. No Democrats hold elected county offices, and Richards herself was defeated in her bid two years ago to become McLean County Clerk.

Richards became the county’s first African-American local party chair, replacing Erik Rankin last April.

Vice Chair John Whalen will take over in an acting capacity until precinct committeemen and women meet to pick Richards’ replacement. That meeting is tentatively set for January.

Heart of Illinois ABC can be reached at [email protected]. 

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