For more than half a century, the MDC has preserved its unique identity as an independent, loosely organized group of present, past and prospective officeholders, community activists and interested citizens. Although it operates outside of the official Party structure, the MDC is still very much a part of the Democratic Party tradition, and many MDC members are grassroots Party operatives and Part
y leaders. By providing an informal, open forum for speakers and facilitating the free exchange of ideas, MDC members help to guide and advise Party officials, influence elected and appointed decision-makers on matters of policy, and inform members and the general public about public affairs. Programs on local, national and international politics are interspersed with others that help members to understand governmental processes and political history, and are scheduled to complement and coincide with current events. The MDC supports candidates and officeholders who share its progressive values. MDC members volunteer and contribute each election cycle, and MDC endorsements have long been coveted by campaigns and reported in the press. The MDC also takes visible and vocal public stands promoting public policy consistent with its values. The MDC hosts numerous events for members during the year that combine nourishment with opportunities for networking. These include lunchtime programs, evening issue and candidate forums, happy hours and fundraisers, the Annual Meeting & Summer Social in June and the Winter Holiday Party in December. Dues-paying members enjoy the following benefits: the MDC Newsletter mailed in print each month; access to exciting and informative MDC programs and forums; the right to vote on MDC election endorsements; eligibility for MDC board membership and privileges; and mingling with fellow MDC members and elected officials at social events. PRAISE FOR THE CLUB:
"Good friends and dedicated Democrats - it's always a pleasure to meet with the MDC, listen to informed Democrats and learn more about the political pulse of our community."
- U.S. Congressman Jim McDermott
"Where would we be without the MDC, the organization we count on to consistently and passionately promote our values and ideals?"
- WA State Senator and MDC Board Member Jeanne Kohl-Welles
“As a long-time member, I have always enjoyed the opportunity afforded by the MDC to discuss the issues of the day with a group of seasoned Democratic agitators of all ages – folks who know which side they are on and care about leaving the city and nation better than they found them.”
- King County Executive Dow Constantine
“The MDC is a great place to meet knowledgeable, politically savvy people with a Democratic perspective.”
- Former King County Executive Ron Sims
"The MDC provides a forum that encourages vision and creative thinking. I feel that my career as a public servant was launched at the MDC."
- Seattle City Attorney and MDC Board Member Pete Holmes
“I am always impressed by the depth of knowledge and the intensity of discussion at MDC meetings.”
- Seattle City Councilmember and MDC Past President Nick Licata
“The MDC rocks!”
- Former Seattle City Council President Peter Steinbrueck
