Washington, DC – Reacting to the news that Ike Leggett has defeated Republican Chuck Floyd and Independent Robin Ficker and has won the Montgomery County Executive seat in Maryland, Twenty-First Century Democrats called the outcome, “a significant step forward for progressive ideals and values.” During the 2006 election cycle, Twenty-First Century Democrats endorsed 34 candidates, including Leggett, all chosen due to their extraordinary leadership abilities.

“Ike Leggett was an essential part of our team this election season,” said Kelly C. Young, president of Twenty-First Century Democrats. “Ike has been committed to Democratic ideals throughout his career in public service, and will continue to fight for the progressive principles that got him elected. He has extraordinary leadership qualities, and will be the voice of balance and integrity in Montgomery County.”

Leggett was favored to defeat both Floyd and Ficker throughout the race, partly due to the fact that Montgomery County, an overwhelming Democratic county in Maryland, has had a Democratic County Executive since 1978. However, the Leggett campaign was also able to successfully rally supporters from varied backgrounds, occupations and interests, beginning to build a broad coalition from all over the County. As the next County Executive, Ike plans to fight for more affordable housing, environmental protections, small business opportunities, and education reforms for his constituents.

The endorsement of such a small number of candidates nationwide signals a new direction for Twenty-First Century Democrats. “In order to achieve substantive changes in public policy, we need to elect Democrats who will actively support our progressive ideals,” said Young. “Our elected officials need to reach out to America, inspire, and motivate millions of citizens to become involved in their communities. Ike Leggett is the type of leader who can compel Montgomery County citizens to become active in our democracy once again.”

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Twenty-First Century Democrats seeks out, supports, and elects extraordinary, visionary leaders who are courageous risk-takers committed to creating a just, tolerant, and open society.