Tarrant County Democratic Party Chair Crystal Gayden announced her resignation June 1, leaving the organization in a state of uncertainty and weary optimism.

Gayden, an attorney, has held the position since 2023. Recent months saw her tenure marked by a controversial “strategic restructure,” in which all three of the organization’s paid staff were laid off , as well as an emphasis on rallying support against a GOP-led effort to redistrict the Tarrant County Commissioners Court.

The Tarrant County Democratic Party — which is now entirely run by volunteers — will elect a new chair in a special, virtual election scheduled for July 7. Until then, Gayden will continue her responsibilities.

Gayden declined to comment.

Local Democratic leaders expressed hope that Gayden’s exit marks a new

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