Spearman to resign as ADP director

After six years at the helm of day-to-day operations of the Alabama Democratic Party, Jim Spearman will resign Friday, according to a press release.

Spearman was appointed executive director in 2005 by then Alabama Democratic Party Chairman Redding Pitt and continued serving throughout the tenure of Chairman Joe Turnham. Spearman is now assisting with the transition of the newly elected Chairman, Judge Mark Kennedy.

“This has been a tough decision to make, but I feel it is the right one at this point in my life,” Spearman said. “Timing is everything in politics and it is time for new leadership in the party. I know I am leaving the party in capable hands.”

Spearman said he was proud of the many accomplishments the party had achieved over the past six years.

“We elected candidates in areas that a Democrat had not served in many years," he said. "We modernized technology at the party offices, improved the operations of several county executive committees and had unprecedented outreach on the grassroots level.

“I am extremely grateful for the help I have received from county chairs, activists, elected officials, county and state committee members and especially the staff at the Alabama Democratic Party. It has been a team effort. Over the past six years I have traveled across Alabama and have seen the hard work of Democrats. From Limestone to DeKalb to Houston to Washington counties you will find Democrats working to improve Alabama and I am proud to be a part of that effort,” Spearman said.

“Unfortunately, like other states around the nation we have had some temporary electoral setbacks along the way, but you learn from these and work harder to build a better Democratic Party that stands with the people of Alabama and is true to our core principles. Over time the people of Alabama will realize that Democrats stand with them and are right on the issues for the majority of Alabamians.”

Spearman plans to return home to Lamar County to pursue other interests. He said he would remain active in the Democratic Party as he continues to serve as the vice chairman for county affairs and represents the interests of the people of Fayette, Lamar and Tuscaloosa counties on the State Democratic Executive Committee.

-- posted by Markeshia Ricks