Kendall Scudder, the newly electedchairoftheTexasDemocratic Party, visited Bandera County on Monday, June 2, drawing a standing-room-only crowd for a “Chat With the Chair” breakfast at Mendoza’s Mexican Grill.
The event, hosted by the Bandera County Democratic Party, drew attendees from across the region, including neighboring Bexar, Comal and Medina counties.
Scudder, 35, is a longtime Democratic organizer and business owner who previously served as vice chair for finance of the Texas Democratic Party and as a member of the Dallas Civil Service Board.
He earned a master’s degree in political management from George Washington University. He lives in Dallas with his wife, Carly.
Scudder emphasized a people-first strategy focused on grassroots organizing, economic justice, and engagement with rural and underrepresented communities.
“We can make this a Texas that works for everyone, but we can’t do it without you,” he said. Scudder called for a shift away from “playing defense,” noting a lack of enthusiasm for current party messaging when he asked for a show of hands—none were raised.
His priorities include fighting inflation linked to tariffs, improving wages, and reducing health care costs.
Scudder pledged to rebuild party infrastructure with financial transparency and steer the party back to its working-class roots, prioritizing families over billionaires and corporate donors.
He also emphasized the importanceofmeetingyounger voters on digital platforms and energizing local participation.
“We have to show up where voters are—not just where it’s easy,” he said.
Scudder closed by invoking the legacy of historic Texas Democrats—from Lyndon B. Johnson’s civil rights initiatives to Ann Richards’ championing of public education and women’s rights—and urged attendees to get involved in upcoming local elections.
His remarks received a standing ovation.
Led by County Chair Lynn Oliver, the Bandera County Democratic Party and its elected precinct chairs work in coordination with the Bandera County Democratic Club to promote Democratic values through voter outreach, education and community service.
Despite political challenges in the region, the organization remains committed to civic engagement and increasing representation in local government, according to a press release from the party.
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