The Ontario County Democratic Committee (OCDC) raised over $25,000 at its Winter Fundraiser on Thursday night, setting a new record for the annual event. Held at the Hotel Canandaigua on Lakeshore Drive, the cocktail reception drew approximately 200 attendees, with additional donations still coming in.
OCDC leaders attributed the strong fundraising effort to growing political engagement in the county, fueled by concerns over national policies. Many attendees expressed outrage over recent federal decisions allowing billionaire Elon Musk to make cuts to programs like Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and the Veteran’s Administration.
Thomas White, chair of the fundraising committee and OCDC treasurer, emphasized the importance of local elections in shaping the county’s future. “The OCDC is laying the groundwork to get Democrats across the county elected,” White told the crowd. “We are launching new social media campaigns, recruiting candidates, and reaching out to voters in new ways. Now we have the funds to finance these local campaigns.”
With 101 city, town, and village government seats up for election this year, Democratic organizers see an opportunity to increase their influence at the local level. OCDC Chair John Hurley pointed to growing activism in Ontario County, noting that residents have been turning out for protests and demanding accountability from officials like Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY24).
“We are watching our friends and neighbors turn against this assault on our democracy,” Hurley said. “The financial support the OCDC received shows that our residents are ready to rise up and meet the moment. It’s a new day here in Ontario County.”
OCDC leaders encouraged supporters to stay involved and continue working toward a government that prioritizes protecting and supporting all Americans.
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