The Only Democrat on the Council? How to Get Things Passed
Being the only Democrat on the council doesn’t mean you can’t get anything done. It means you need a different plan from the members who can count on a bloc.
This guide is for Democrats elected to city and town councils in 2026, often in races with no party label on the ballot. The same approach works on county boards and school boards.
Count to a Majority Before You Propose
Know your number. On a seven-member council, you need four votes, which means three colleagues who aren’t Democrats.
Talk to colleagues one at a time before anything goes on an agenda. Be careful not to build a chain of conversations that adds up to a quorum, which can break the open meeting law. Our guide for a new city council member explains the risk.
Lead With Local Problems, Not Party Labels
Most Arizona cities elect councils without party labels on the ballot, and Tucson is a notable exception. Either way, potholes, water bills, parks and rent don’t have a party.
Frame every proposal around a problem your colleagues’ own constituents have. Bring the numbers from their districts, not just yours.
Learn How Items Get on the Agenda
Read your council’s rules of procedure closely. Some councils let any two members add an item, others route requests through the mayor or the manager, and some use study sessions first.
Board and commission appointments matter too. The people on those boards shape recommendations long before the council votes.
Bring the Public Into the Room
Turn out residents to speak during the call to the public, and help neighborhood groups send written comments. In Arizona, members can’t discuss an issue raised in public comment unless it’s on the agenda, but a full room still shapes the next agenda.
Ask staff for reports and data on your issue. A staff report your colleagues can read is harder to dismiss than a speech.
Win Small Votes and Bank the Relationships
Support colleagues on items you agree with, and tell them so. Co-sponsor their good ideas. Give credit away freely.
Being the only Democrat on the council is easier when colleagues trust that you’ll be fair to them. That trust is what turns a 3-4 loss into a 4-3 win later.
Find Allies Outside City Hall
Networks like Local Progress connect progressive local officials who have passed similar policies in other cities. Your county Democratic party, state legislators, unions and neighborhood groups can add pressure and expertise.
When You Lose a Vote
Explain your vote on the record and to your constituents. A clear, respectful dissent builds your case for the next vote and the next election.
Keep your supporters close between elections. Our guide on how to keep donors engaged covers the year-one plan.
Sutton & Smart works with Democratic officeholders on re-election and runs for higher office. Talk to us.
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Jon Sutton
An expert in management, strategy, and field organizing, Jon has been a frequent commentator in national publications.
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