Glendale, WI — Glendale Mayor Bryan Kennedy today announced his candidacy for Chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin (DPW), pledging to continue to build the party through grassroots organizing, strategic infrastructure development, and effective communication of Democratic values.
Kennedy, who also serves as the national President of Democratic Municipal Officials—the largest constituency within the Democratic National Committee—brings a wealth of experience in both local governance and national political strategy. His leadership has been marked by a commitment to engaging with voters and collaborating with local elected officials to address community needs.
“Ben Wikler has shown us that to be an effective state party chair, one must develop a comprehensive strategy and infrastructure to win elections at all levels, secure the necessary funding to build that infrastructure, and effectively communicate our party’s message and values,” said Kennedy. “I am running to ensure that the Democratic Party of Wisconsin continues to be equipped to win elections in 2026 and beyond.”
Kennedy’s campaign emphasizes the importance of empowering county parties to operate effectively, akin to union locals, allowing them to make informed decisions while receiving guidance and support from the state party. This approach aims to foster a more responsive and dynamic party structure capable of addressing the unique needs of communities across Wisconsin.
With a background as the former president of the American Federation of Teachers-Wisconsin, Kennedy has demonstrated a strong commitment to education and labor issues. His tenure as mayor has been characterized by proactive engagement with constituents and a focus on pragmatic solutions to local challenges.
Joining Kennedy on the WisDems Forward ticket are former Madison Alderwoman Arvina Martin and College Democrat Landiran Kern. Arvina was the first Native person elected to Madison’s Common Council and is a leader in the Ho-Chunk Nation. She currently serves as Executive Director of Emerge Wisconsin, training women to develop campaigns and run for office. A member of the labor union SEIU, Arvina also serves on the Democratic National Committee. Landiran is a student at UW-Green Bay and a rising star in the Democratic Party. He became active in politics in high school, where he was the Wisconsin Political Director for High School Dems. Last summer, he was elected as a delegate from the 6th Congressional District to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
The upcoming DPW chair election, scheduled for June 14-15, 2025, in Wisconsin Dells, presents an opportunity for party members to select a leader who can guide the party toward continued success. Kennedy’s candidacy offers a vision grounded in experience, inclusivity, and a steadfast dedication to Democratic principles.
