Who we are, and what we're working toward.
The Smith County Democratic Party is the local home for Democrats and Democratic-leaning neighbors across Smith County, Kansas — organized by volunteers, open to everyone, from Smith Center to Lebanon, Kensington, Gaylord, Athol, and Cedar.
A small county party with a big sense of community.
We’re neighbors first. Some of us have been organizing here for years; others just showed up to their first meeting. What we share is a belief that Smith County — settled in 1872, right along the Solomon River — works best when everyone has a seat at the table and a say in what happens next.
We meet regularly, support Democratic candidates up and down the ballot, and put real effort into things that don’t always get attention in a small, rural county — voter registration, transportation to the polls, and just making sure people know what’s on their ballot, whether they’re in town or out on the farm.
At a glance
Smith Center, the Smith County seat
Local volunteers and elected precinct committee members
Smith Center, Lebanon, Kensington, Gaylord, Athol, and Cedar
Monthly — see our events page for the next one
Downtown Smith Center — photo by Jared Winkler, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Proud of where we’re from
Two facts most Americans don’t know: they both happened right here.
The center of the country
Lebanon, Kansas marks the geographic center of the 48 contiguous United States — a landmark you can visit just north of town.
The birthplace of a Kansas anthem
Brewster Higley composed “Home on the Range” in a cabin northwest of Smith Center in 1873. It’s been the official state song since 1947.
Values that guide our work
Strong Rural Communities
Investment in the roads, schools, hospitals, and small businesses that keep Smith County's wheat-and-cattle economy thriving for the next generation.
Accessible Healthcare
Quality, affordable healthcare shouldn't depend on your zip code — especially out here in rural north-central Kansas.
Great Public Schools
Well-funded public education that gives every kid in Smith County a real shot, wherever they start out.
Good-Paying Jobs
Supporting local agriculture, small business, and workforce development that keeps opportunity close to home.
Fair, Secure Elections
Every eligible voter should be able to register easily, vote safely, and trust that their vote is counted.
A Seat for Everyone
Whether you've voted Democratic your whole life or you're just curious — there's room for you here.
Come see for yourself.
The best way to get to know us is to show up. Our meetings are open, friendly, and always looking for new faces.