Samuel Ujdak, chairman of the Monroe County Democratic Party, resigned, effective Monday, June 23 at 11:59 p.m.
Due to developments in his personal life, Ujdak said he is unable to serve the role with “the amount of commitment and clarity necessary to honor the gravity of the position,” according to a press release.
He urged citizens not to turn inward amid American policy decisions, like conflict with the Middle East, ongoing ICE raids throughout the country and increasingly inaccessible gender affirming care for transgender youth.
“You have a responsibility, when you step into this fight, to hold the line and open your heart to your community,” he said in the press release.
Ujdak’s said even with his retirement, he will remain open for advice and act as a sounding board for community members.
“It has been an honor to serve you in the many capacities in which I have done so these last 8 years,” he said in the press release. “Being one of the few openly queer political party chairs in Indiana is no small thing. Love each other. Love yourselves. Protect trans kids.”
