On The Record: Tillman Chaplin

For this episode of On The Record, we speak with Tillman Chaplin, County Chair of the Erath County Democratic Party.

What were the biggest challenges you faced during the Texas primary?

I took over as chair of the Erath County Democratic Party the day before the primary elections, because the previous chair, Alvis Yardley, is running for office in Erath County.

The transition was good. The previous chair was good and helped me through the primary process. Other long-time members of the Party were extremely helpful and supportive.

The greatest difficulty was getting people on board and understanding the caucus rules. All of our committees were fully staffed, and elected officials came out to make presentations and announcements during the event.

What are you looking forward to in the coming cycle?

There are many opportunities in the next election cycle. I am looking forward to informing and educating, at a grassroots level about candidates and important Party items locally and nationally.

I also look forward to organizing the grassroots organization at the county level for people to call and find out more information about issues and become more informed about their vote.

A goal of mine is to have more involved voters on a local level. Electing candidates to higher positions is through a Party system that begins locally. My goal is to push voting in the primary and caucus. A large percentage of your voting happens locally.

What advice would you give to young people just getting into politics?

My advice is to not be afraid to ask questions and do not be afraid to get involved. Being young does not mean you do not have a good idea or solution to long time problems.

We have many young delegates going to the Convention. Half of our delegation is under the age of 35.

What one thing would you say a political organization never has enough of?

Organizations can never have enough quality information that you can count on. You need good information that you can take to the bank and make legitimate decisions and judgments.

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in politics?

Democracy is not free. You must be willing to sacrifice your time and talents to have democracy continue to be with us.