New Atlantic County Democratic Chairman Pledges Fresh Leadership, Focus on Voter Engagement

Newly elected Atlantic County Democratic Committee Chairman Waleed Abdrabouh says one of his top priorities will be increasing voter participation and encouraging a new generation of community leaders to become involved in politics.

During an interview on Off The Press with Scott Cronick on News Talk 1400 & 92.3 WOND, Abdrabouh said he hopes to build on the foundation established by former chairman Michael Suleiman while bringing new ideas and perspectives to the county party.

"My hope is that I can meet these expectations and hopefully exceed these expectations," Abdrabouh said.

Abdrabouh, who lives in Galloway Township and works at Stockton University, was elected chairman without opposition following Suleiman's decision to step down after a decade leading the county Democratic organization.

He said one of the party's biggest challenges is reversing declining civic participation, arguing that voter turnout has become an issue not only in Atlantic County but across the country.

"I think our challenges right now lie in just trying to get people back engaged in public service and politics," he said, adding that many voters have become discouraged by increasing political polarization.

According to Abdrabouh, the increasingly divisive political climate has caused some people to disengage from the electoral process altogether.

"I think the divisiveness is what draws people away," he said. "People are picking and choosing friends... based on whether or not you have the same political ideology."

Abdrabouh said he hopes the Democratic Committee can help identify candidates who inspire voters rather than relying solely on party affiliation.

"We've got to bring candidates that galvanize—candidates that really excite people," he said.

Describing himself politically as a "libertarian Democrat," Abdrabouh said he supports smaller government and individual rights while also believing government has a responsibility to help residents who are unable to help themselves.

"I believe very strongly in a lot of what the Democratic Party does," he said, pointing to what he described as the party's commitment to supporting vulnerable residents.

Abdrabouh said he also wants to introduce more new voices into party leadership while maintaining continuity with the organization's existing structure. His leadership team includes Dr. Alicia Bridgers as vice chair, Barbara McCoskey as secretary and Sid Khan as treasurer.

A resident of Galloway for the past 12 years, Abdrabouh previously served as president of the Galloway Democratic Club and as secretary of the Atlantic County Democratic Committee. He said his own unsuccessful campaigns for local office helped shape his approach to leadership and reinforced the importance of reaching voters on a personal level.

Abdrabouh made the remarks during an appearance on Off The Press with Scott Cronick, which airs weekdays from 4 to 6 p.m. on News Talk 1400 & 92.3 WOND.