My Pledge to Demystify the DFL

One of the biggest barriers to participation in our party isn’t ideology—it’s accessibility. For too many people, getting involved in the DFL can feel like trying to solve a puzzle without all the pieces. Caucuses, conventions, endorsements, delegate selection, and committee structures are crucial to our democracy, yet they’re often confusing, even for those who have been involved for years.

As I run for Secretary, I’m committed to helping demystify the DFL—ensuring that every elected leader, activist, and volunteer understands how our party works, how they can engage meaningfully, and how we can build a stronger, more inclusive DFL together.

My commitment to you:

Proactive Onboarding for State Central Committee Members
I will work to create a structured onboarding process for new SCC members, ensuring they understand their roles and responsibilities and how they can participate effectively from day one.

Roberts Rules Training & Cheat Sheet
Too often, meetings feel inaccessible because members don’t have the tools to navigate parliamentary procedures. I will push to create concise, easy-to-use Roberts Rules guides and training opportunities so that every member can fully engage in the decision-making process.

A Centralized Resource Hub
Information should be easy to find, not buried in endless email threads. I will advocate for a Google Drive or online hub with key documents, including meeting minutes, bylaws, resolutions, and procedural guides—so no one is left searching for answers.

Explaining the Party’s Structure & Decision-Making Process
I will work to create a plain-language guide to the DFL, covering everything from endorsements to delegate selection, helping members and activists understand exactly how our party operates and how they can get involved.

The DFL is strongest when everyone can fully participate. If we’re serious about growing our party, we must ensure that our processes are clear, accessible, and digestible. 

We can build a DFL where every leader feels equipped to lead, every activist feels empowered to organize, and every member understands how to make a difference.

If elected, I will fight to make this vision a reality. Let’s demystify the DFL and build a stronger party together.

Anita Smithson