Re-Elect Tom O'Brien, Stella Sexton, Cheryl Holland-Jones, and Adriana Hursh for LCDC Executive Team
A former business executive in international trade with over 40 countries.
Youth soccer and basketball coach in Manheim Township.
Manheim Township Commissioner for 4 years, with one year as President.
Manheim Township School Board for 16 years, with 8 years as Vice President.
Democratic Committee Person since 1999.
District leader in Manheim Township.
Previous candidate against Lloyd Smucker for a State Senate seat.
Chair of the Lancaster County Democrats since 2022.
A resident of Lancaster County for over 40 years.
Tom O'Brien
Tom O'Brien brings a depth of experience to the role of Lancaster County Democratic Committee Chair that is unmatched in the organization's history. A successful business executive in international trade spanning over 40 countries, Tom and his family have called Lancaster County home for more than 40 years. His record of public service runs deep — from coaching youth basketball and soccer to serving four years as Manheim Township Commissioner (including one year as president) and sixteen years on the Manheim Township School Board (eight as Vice President). A Democratic committee person since 1999, he also served as district leader in Manheim Township and ran against Lloyd Smucker for a state senate seat. Tom is the first chair to have served as a candidate, elected official, Campaign Committee Chair, and party leader before assuming the chairmanship — a combination that gives him a unique understanding of what candidates, volunteers, and the party itself need to succeed.
When Tom stepped into the role, LCDC was in survival mode — operating with just 12 weeks of funds on hand, relying on personal connections to keep the lights on, and running on the same playbook it had used for two decades. There was no strategic plan, no code of conduct, no accountability framework, and no structure to ensure committee people were protected and treated equitably. The organization lacked credibility with surrounding county parties and went unacknowledged by state and national partners.
Tom took on the chairmanship because he believed LCDC deserved more than survival — it deserved a real vision for growth. With Lancaster County on the cusp of turning blue, his leadership is focused on building the infrastructure, partnerships, and strategic foundation needed to make that transformation a reality.
Current Vice Chair and Finance Chair of Lancaster County Democratic Committee.
Current Committee Person in Manheim Township and lives with her husband, two teenagers, two red labs and two tuxedo cats.
Senator Malone's Co-Campaign Manager in the 2025 special election.
Currently “Malone for Senate’s” Treasurer and Senior Advisor for his re-election campaign.
Writes training programs for PA Dems on topics such as Organizing in Retirement Communities, how to run a GOTV operation, and Fundraising for County Parties.
Since 2021, Democratic campaigns and committees Stella has fundraised for have raised over $1.5 million.
A graduate of Hempfield High School and Franklin and Marshall College.
Stella Sexton
Stella Sexton has proven she knows how to make connections that benefit the county democrats, and by extension, our districts and candidates. She currently serves as the Vice Chair and Finance Chair of Lancaster County Democratic Committee. She is seeking another term as Vice Chair.
Together with Joyce Stephens, she was Senator Malone's co-campaign manager in the special election that shocked the nation, flipping a Trump +15 seat Democratic, in a campaign which top PA Democratic operatives have called "flawless." She continues as Senator Malone's Treasurer and Senior Advisor in his re-election campaign.
Recently, together with Rep. Izzy Smith-Wade-El, she's also been working on an initiative to fund local bilingual canvassing and voter outreach in both Spanish and Mandarin. Stella has written several trainings for the PA Dems on topics such as Organizing in Retirement Communities, how to run a GOTV operation, and Fundraising for County Parties. She's been featured in national media outlets such as the NYT, Washington Post, CNN, and others for her work in Lancaster County. Since 2021, Democratic campaigns and committees that Stella has fundraised for have raised over $1.5 million. Governor Shapiro has called her "the Machine."
A graduate of Hempfield High School and Franklin and Marshall College, Stella resides in Manheim Township's 21st precinct, where she serves as committeeperson, with her husband, two teenagers, two red labs and two tuxedo cats.
A lifelong resident of Lancaster County and a dedicated member of the Democratic Party.
Appointed to Lancaster City Council (2026–2028).
Previously served in the elected position as Lancaster City Treasurer, focusing on the principles of transparency and fiscal responsibility.
Current Constituent Service Advisor for Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El, supporting residents in accessing vital state resources and services.
Co-founder of Hazel I. Jackson Foundation, established in 2022 to uplift and support our community.
A Life Member of the NAACP and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and an active member of Bethel AME Church.
Graduate of Lancaster Country Day School and Millersville University.
Cheryl Holland-Jones
As a lifelong resident of Lancaster County and a dedicated member of the Democratic Party, Cheryl Holland-Jones remains steadfast in her commitment to public service and community advancement. She seeks reelection as Treasurer of the Lancaster County Democratic Committee to help strengthen our organization, support Democratic candidates, and foster a more inclusive and thriving community.
She firmly believes that meaningful change is achieved through active engagement in local and state government, and is honored to continue serving with purpose while giving back to the community that has shaped her.
Her current service includes appointment to Lancaster City Council (2026–2028) and previously serving in the elected position as Lancaster City Treasurer, where she upheld strong principles of transparency and fiscal responsibility. Currently, she serves as a Constituent Service Advisor for Representative Ismail Smith-Wade-El, supporting residents in accessing vital state resources and services. She is also the co-founder of Hazel I. Jackson Foundation, established in 2022 to uplift and support our community. In addition, she is a Life Member of the NAACP and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and an active member of Bethel AME Church.
Executive Assistant to the Mayor of Lancaster City.
Owner of Hursh Consulting, LLC.
Campaign Manager for Mayor Jaime Arroyo.
Current Committee Person of the Lancaster City Democrats.
Former Executive Director of the nonprofit community bicycle shop and co-op, The Common Wheel.
Member of the Board of Directors of the Susquehanna National Heritage Area.
Served on the Board of Directors of Clare House.
Served as Secretary of the Board of Directors for The Common Wheel.
An appointee of the Statewide Pedestrian and Pedalcycle Advisory Committee.
A Member of the Lancaster County Active Transportation Advisory Committee since 2018.
Graduate of J.P. McCaskey High School and Franklin and Marshall College.
Mom to a pre-teen and resides with her husband, a sitting City Council member.
Adriana Hursh
This term, we offer Adriana Hursh for secretary. She is the Executive Assistant to the Mayor of Lancaster and the Owner of Hursh Consulting, LLC. She previously served as the Campaign Manager for Mayor Jaime Arroyo and as the Executive Director of nonprofit community bicycle shop and co-op, The Common Wheel. She served on the Board of Directors of Clare House and as the Secretary of the Board of Directors for The Common Wheel.
As part of her Baldwin Fellowship with the Lancaster County Community Foundation, Adriana took a 3 week trip by Amtrak with a folding bike to six cities across the U.S. She met with mobility advocates, other nonprofit bicycle organizations, and government officials in communities that have improved their active transportation networks and mobility friendliness. Adriana is an appointee of the Statewide Pedestrian and Pedalcycle Advisory Committee and has served on Lancaster County’s Active Transportation Advisory Committee since 2018.
She is a graduate of Franklin and Marshall College and J.P. McCaskey High School. She is the proud mom of Dante and is married to John, a Lancaster City Councilor and Chair of the Finance Committee. In her free time, Adriana loves reading a good novel, making meals for friends and family on her invisible cooktop, and exploring new cities on foot, by bike, and by public transportation.
Endorsements
I became a participatory member of the Lancaster County Democrat Committee and Hempfield Area Democrat Committee and Hempfield Area Democrat Committee in 2017 when I started my run for Mayor. Before that, I was largely focused on my Borough and family.
I saw the struggling decline of LCDC and it’s phoenix style rebirth beginning in 2022 with the current leadership.
My success as a local Mayor, my speciail election run for Senator of the 36th District, my current campaign success, and the support of our Governor and labor unions has been largely driven by this team of hard working, open, strategic thinking individuals. They have diligently worked to bring each subordinate committee into compliance with State and County law and encouraged productive participation.
I am looking forward to continued election wins, outstanding fundraising, and national attention as our Lancaster County Democratic Committee continues to grow and turn out the vote.
That’s why I am supporting the incumbent slate: Tom O’Brien, Stella Sexton, Cheryl Holland Jones, and Adriana Hursh.
In your service,
James Andrew
What a whirlwind of success we’ve seen our local candidates achieve as elected officials! I’m looking forward to continued election wins, outstanding fundraising, and national attention as Lancaster County Dems grows and turns out the vote. This year, I’ll be supporting the incumbent slate: Tom O’Brien, Stella Sexton, Cheryl Holland Jones, and Adriana Hursh.
Truly,
Nikki
Flipping, and then securing, a Democratic Majority in the PA House has been the honor and pride of my political career. We've been able to deliver for working families, people of color, and public school students while stopping bills that would have made abortion illegal in Pennsylvania and harmed queer youth.
Tom, Stella, Cheryl, and Adriana have each put work in to help make that possible. I've seen it, and thats what I want from County Party leadership: people who dig in and do the work.
Izzy Smith-Wade-El
I fully support Tom O’Brien, Stella Sexton, Cheryl Holland‑Jones, and Adriana Hursh for Lancaster County Democratic Committee leadership.
As an elected official, District Leader, and Committee Person in a rural area, I have consistently received support from this team. They understand the unique challenges of running — and helping others run — in a deeply red district. Whenever I have reached out, they have responded with help.
Under the current leadership, the LCDC has made significant progress.
They have dramatically increased the number of committee people, strengthened poll coverage, and improved overall organizational capacity. Stella has raised substantial funding — both locally and nationally — helping make the LCDC financially stable. Governor Josh Shapiro even publicly thanked her, calling her “The Machine” for her extraordinary work on behalf of Lancaster County Democrats.
Delyn R. Alumbaugh, Jr.
From Jaime: After a successful election cycle where our County saw tremendous gains, including the election of Senator James Malone, I am proud to support the incumbent slate with the addition of Adriana Hursh as secretary to lead the County Party.
This slate has proven their leadership is built on success. From winning races to breaking fundraising records, I know we can depend on Tom, Stella, Adriana, and Cheryl to continue the great work that's been done to lead us into a future where Lancsater County turns blue.
Tom O'Brien, Stella Sexton, and their team have led us down an unprecedented path of success during the past several years when it comes to winning seats, raising funds, and earning the trust of the statewide party. There is no question in my mind that they are the best group of people to lead the LCDC for the foreseeable future.
Ryan Dodson
Elected Democratic Manheim Township Tax Collector
The strength and influence of the Democratic Party has been increasing in Lancaster County. The driving force behind our movement has been carried on the backs of Tom, Stella, Cheryl, and Adriana.
From their leadership and guidance we have expanded our elected offices past the boundaries of Lancaster City. We have also built a very impressive balance sheet creating a large war chest to continue to support our candidates and message.
Under their leadership, Lancaster County will turn blue in 2026 for Govenor Shapiro. At these tumultuous and dangerous times we need strong proven leaders and I am honored to give my support to this great team.
Sam Kulp
I am proud to support Tom O’Brien for Chair, Stella Sexton, and their entire team for the next LCDC.
Under their leadership, LCDC has achieved tremendous success and continued to build momentum for the future. Their dedication, vision, and proven track record have strengthened the party and positioned it for even greater accomplishments ahead.
As LCDC looks toward the future, I am confident that Tom, Stella, and their team have the experience, passion, and leadership needed to continue moving our party forward and building on the progress we have made together.
Cindy Lam
As a Chair of LCDC Latino Caucus, in recognition of their hard work, dedication, and proven leadership, I'm expressing my full support for the candidacies of Tom O'Brien for Chair, and Stella Sexton for Vice Chair, as well as their entire team for the next LCDC.
Their successful service and experience have been vital to our Democratic Party and our diverse community. I'm confident that their leadership will continue to move the organization forward.
Celso Mesias
I want to endorse Tom, Stella, Cheryl, and Adrianna for election this year. As a first-time political candidate last year, I found their candidate boot camp training last March to be the start of their helpfulness, by providing data on the ward of Elizabethtown Borough I was running in, plus motivation to fund raise, & more.
Stella Sexton, LCDC vice-chair, particularly helped me strategize & create canvassing turfs in both the summer & the fall & providing me with call lists of Ward 1 residents. She also directed me to Lauren Kuntz, who helped design the canvassing literature for my campaign for when I would go knocking on doors talking with so many residents in the borough, at a time when I needed help & guidance early on as I also felt very intimidated running for office. Stella also repeatedly checked in with me to see how the campaign was going and what the feedback was like I was getting at people's doors.
Tom O'Brien joined me himself canvassing a turf in E-town-Ward 1 in mid-September, near the end of the "get out the vote" phase of the campaign. I found that, as well as the grant money the campaign received, very helpful. The money helped fund a 2nd round of the literature & yard signs to be purchased.
In my experience, I found their assistance matched my level of engagement with them and my community, also including the summaries of the many borough council meetings I attended.
Because of the strong foundation Stella and Tom have laid cycle after cycle, our slate of MTSD Democratic School Board Candidates won the November 2025 election by significant margins. They supported with both strategic vision and tactical execution.
I will gladly endorse Tom and his slate for county officers as a State Committee person. Tom and Stella have both supported me fully in helping me get more involved with the party, finding my place and where I fit to do the most help, and supporting my goals for where the party should go. Over the past 2 years that I have experienced their leadership, I have had nothing but support and help from them.
Nathan Dick
In 2022, I started volunteering with my local district committee with no prior experience in local politics. Soon after, I was running for school board in L-S, a district that is a decent mix of suburban and rural voters. Two people who saw my immediate passion for local politics and a willingness to put in the work to change my community for the better were Tom O’Brien and Stella Sexton.
Tom was quick to offer his help, knowing I was a new committee member and candidate, and helped foster my curiosity about how the county committee worked. He was open to my feedback and my ideas on how to make the county party an organization that included younger voices and leadership. Stella was one of the first to help me learn how to canvass effectively, driving to my home district to offer her support for me and the rest of our local democratic candidates on the ballot. She also took the time to answer questions about treasurer report filing, to ensure our campaign and district reports were all above board.
Soon after, as Communications Chair, I had a real opportunity to work closely with Tom and Stella. What is most notable about their leadership is their willingness to listen to new ideas, give feedback, and take the time to discuss whether or not these ideas can be implemented. Their knowledge of bylaws, relationships and partnerships with donors, and their experience in this role is used to protect and guide our organization. They are always willing to take the time to explain their side, should you be receptive and willing to listen.
Tom O’Brien, Stella Sexton, Cheryl Holland-Jones, and Adriana Hursh will continue this tradition of meaningful and strategic growth, open and honest communication, and a people-first approach I have been fortunate to see and experience firsthand.
Lauren Kuntz
Former L-S school board candidate and Communications Chair
As a newer member of the County Party, my primary goal has always been getting more Democrats in power to show that leading by example with policies that truly help build a better community and look out for our most vulnerable. Between flipping a state senate seat, bringing historic levels of resources to our County, and attracting nationwide attention as a well-respected and effective County Party, I believe the results speak for themselves.
I remember hearing how dire the financial situation of the County Party was and that Tom was the one stepping up to lead us to stability. Tom, Stella, and Cheryl repaid that trust with a record filled with exceeded expectations both electorally and financially. They chose to lead us through the storm and I am excited to see what they can do when the winds are blowing in our favor. I have always been encouraged to share my honest opinions and feedback, and while not every disagreement ended in my favor, I have seen this administration's willingness to listen, compromise, and be persuaded by strong arguments.
While I have had less time getting to know Adriana, she has shown me the signs of a true leader — willing to build trust through her actions, eager to have respectful and honest conversations, and with the skills to fulfill the duties of Secretary matched only by her desire to exceed expectations and build a better County Party for everyone.
I have been honored by the trust and guidance I have been given by Tom and Stella. I can not imagine implementing the growth and obtaining victories I know we can accomplish together without them. It is for those reasons, and countless more, that I endorse Tom O'Brien, Stella Sexton, Cheryl Holland-Jones, and Adriana Hursh to lead us through this critical next 4 years.
Joey Moran
LCDC has never been in a better position during my tenure Lancaster in politics, thanks to this team. We have won important races including State Senator, and two house seats, and expanded our local wins far into the suburbs and rural areas. Democratic turnout has never been higher.
It would be a mistake to change leadership now. That’s why I’m supporting Tom O’Brien, Stella Sexton, Cheryl Holland-Jones, and Adriana Hursh to lead our party for another four years.
Progress as a Result
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2022Accomplishments
Convinced previous donors to reinvest in our organization after rebuilding our internal committees and fostering a new relationship with the state committee, gaining us organizing and fundraising insights.
Informed by our State party that we violated votebuilder rules: were able to negotiate 3 years probation.
We doubled our democratic representation from Lancaster at the state house.
Fundraisers were restarted to foster a community environment with local stakeholders that led to financial connections.
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2023Accomplishments
We adopted a comprehensive plan with guidelines from our state committee.
Increased number of democratic candidates on the ballot.
Reduced communications costs and headquarters rental costs.
Changed overall investment accounts in order to improve our dividends, and to comply with democratic values -- our team found inappropriate use of donor funds as a result of an unethical investor, and quickly switched.
Technology committee redirected files and security to cloud-based system.
Increased votes for state judicial candidates by over 12%. State party acknowledged our voter turnout helped elect a competent group of democratic judges.
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2024Accomplishments
Wordpress website updated.
Only county of our size that increased margins for presidential election.
Leased our space to democratic presidential campaign that brought in funds and resources for our districts, drawing state and national attention drawing new donors.
We obtained print coverage and social media highlights including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Philadelphia Inquirer, and obtained broadcast coverage on local TV as well as on CNN, and MSNBC.
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2025Accomplishments
102 candidates across districts won their races.
Allocated $55,000 across our districts for them to use for their own operating efforts.
Launched our own internal dashboard-- a hub to streamline committeeperson and candidate documentation, training resources, and shortcuts to common digital tools.
Looking Forward Together
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2026Goals
Flip this county for Shapiro/Davis.
Re-elect James Malone, Nikki Rivera, and Izzy Smith-Wade-El.
Help Brad Chambers flip PA-41.
Expand our margins in each state house race and the Lancaster portion of PA-11 by an average of 6-8 points.
Fund all districts and committees according to the budget passed.
Recruit and train candidates for local office in preparation for 2027, including treasurers and other volunteer campaign staff.
Continue to lead the state in per capita doors knocked.
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2027Goals
“Run 2, Win 2” county commissioners.
Run a successful DA candidate.
Defeat Josh Parsons again!
Run a full slate of Court of Common Pleas candidates and win at least 2 seats.
Run a full slate of county row office candidates.
Flip all statewide judicial races blue.
Contest at least 1 seat in every school district in the county with qualified Democrats.
Flip seats and expand majorities in purple areas.
Contest 50% more municipal seats than in 2025.
Aim to have 80% of CP seats filled by the end of 2027.
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2028Goals
Improve presidential margin by +6 points over the 2024 year.
Continue to expand House majority.
Contest Senate district 13 with a strong candidate and well funded race to improve US Senate margin by +6 points over 2024.
Aim to have 90% of CP seats filled by the end of 2028.
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2029Goals
Expand municipal and school district contested races and majorities.
Continue to keep statewide judge blue.
Have a full bench of leaders in districts and in our caucuses and sub-committees ready to continue work into future administrations.