Jesse Chadderdon, director of communications for Delaware’s senate majority caucus, has been named executive director of the state party. Travis Williams, a party staff member, will serve as deputy director.

After 10 years in journalism, Chadderdon, 36, joined U.S. Sen. Chris Coon’s 2014 reelection campaign as press secretary.  Following the election, he took over as director of communications for the senate majority caucus.

Outgoing Party Chairman Erik Raser-Schramm and Chadderdon worked closely together on several campaigns, including February’s high-profile special election of Stephanie Hansen. Hansen’s victory preserved the Democratic majority in the state senate and garnered national attention and contributions.

"After considering a deep pool of tremendous candidates, I am thrilled Jesse has agreed to play a leading role in the day-to-day operations of our party," Raser-Schramm said. "We have a tremendous working relationship, and I know Jesse’s unique combination of management experience, strategic thinking, political instincts, and messaging talents will serve our party well, and will help us share our vision and values with Delawareans up and down our state."

Gov. John Carney said he’s excited to see new talent in the state party. "I’m confident that working with our new chairman, Jesse, will help us continue to connect our vision of shared prosperity with citizens and families across Delaware."

Chadderdon closed out his career in journalism as the executive director of the GateHouse Delaware family of weekly newspapers.

Jane Hovington, chair of the Sussex County Democratic Committee, said Chadderdon’s experience as reporter and later as executive director of GateHouse should help the party find newfound success downstate.

"With hard work, a commitment to inclusivity, and a willingness to talk, and, more importantly, listen, to Delawareans all across our state, we can grow our party, win elections, and, most significantly, forge new opportunity for the people of our great state," said Chadderdon, whose new job begins on August 1.

Williams, who has served as acting executive director since March, has been named deputy director. He will manage the party’s voter file and data systems. He joined the party as communications director in 2015 after working on Attorney General Matt Denn’s campaign.