David Hogg wins DNC vice chair role, pledges to mobilize young voters

Gun control activist and March for Our Lives co-founder David Hogg was elected as vice chair of the Democratic National Committee after securing 214.5 votes in a four-round election on Saturday, Feb. 1. Pennsylvania state Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta and Artie Blanco of Nevada were also elected as vice chairs, reinforcing the party’s efforts to elevate new leadership.

A call for generational change

Hogg, 24, ran on a platform emphasizing generational change within the Democratic Party, positioning himself as a voice for young voters.

“I’m one of the youngest people ever to run for this role,” he told the DNC Black Caucus before the vote. “We need to make sure that we’re supporting our young people. That’s just what I’ve done.”

The victory speech

After winning, Hogg called for an aggressive approach to Republican opposition and gun control reform in his victory speech.

“Let’s go win our young people back, and let’s stop sending just our thoughts and prayers to address gun violence and do something.”

Hogg gained national attention after the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, where 17 people were killed. He co-founded March for Our Lives, a movement advocating for gun control legislation, and helped push Florida lawmakers to raise the legal gun purchase age to 21.

Key endorsements from Democratic leaders

Hogg received major endorsements from Minnesota Democratic Gov. Tim Walz, a former Democratic vice presidential candidate, and Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Calif.

In addition to his activism, Hogg has founded Leaders We Deserve PAC, an organization focused on electing young progressive lawmakers.

More leadership changes in the DNC

Alongside Hogg’s victory, Reyna Walters-Morgan was elected as vice chair for civic engagement and voter participation, defeating sitting Reps. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, and Nikema Williams, D-Ga.