May Newsletter
Dear Friend,
We're very excited to bring back our monthly newsletter! There's new faces at the helm of the Rutherford County Democratic Party, and we're ready to put the work in. We're here to build community, fight for justice, and bring bold, people-first leadership to every corner of this county. Let's move forward—together!
Hometown Highlights
Following our April reorganization meeting, we have new officers to lead the party! The new chair of the Rutherford County Democratic Party is Matt Fee. Working alongside Chair Fee is First Vice Chair Katrina Aguilar, Second Vice Chair J.R. Marable, Third Vice Chair Brandon Thomas, Treasurer Angela Beale, and Secretary Theo Baker. To contact these individuals directly, visit our website. If you see them around Rutherford County, be sure to say hello!
RCDP Officers Matt Fee, J.R. Marable, and Angela Beale attended the 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Rutherford County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The event was in collaboration with the Pyramid Foundation of Tennessee, and White House Correspondent April Ryan was featured as the keynote speaker. They met many likeminded RuCo residents ready to serve our community!
We officially packed up our old office! For many years, the W Main St office served us well, but we have officially outgrown the space. Big plans are coming, though, as we briefly move into a storage location and establish a new brick and mortar in the county!
The RCDP Executive Committee passed a resolution demanding transparency from local law enforcement and their cooperation with ICE. With the recent ICE activity in Nashville—and now Rutherford County—raising serious concerns about racial profiling, violations of due process, and the use of local resources, we call on all RuCo police departments and the sheriff's office to disclose whether they are participating in any immigration enforcement. Picture courtesy of Fox17.
On Thursday, May 29, non-partisan organization Murfreesboro Indivisible hosted a Town Hall & Community Conversation event with Democratic challenger Victoria Broderick for Tennessee's 4th Congressional District against Scott Desjarlais. Republican challenger Tom Davis was also in attendance. With more than 150 community members in attendance, Broderick shared her views and debated on pressing topics such as gun safety, Medicare/Medicaid, reproductive rights, immigration, transgender rights, and more. Watch the livestream here, and find more information about Democratic challenger Victoria Broderick here!
Capitol Watch
State: While many honored Memorial Day by remembering those who gave their lives in military service, Rep. Andy Ogles used the occasion to push an anti-immigrant agendaat a press conference in Nashville, offering little reflection on the day’s solemn meaning. Instead, he targeted immigrants and local leaders with inflammatory rhetoric, despite not residing in the city he claimed to defend. Meanwhile, Nashville’s immigrant communities are facing heightened fear and surveillance amid increased ICE activity and cooperation with state troopers. In response, local volunteers and advocacy groups like The ReMIX Tennessee have mobilized to track enforcement actions and support vulnerable residents. Their grassroots efforts stand in stark contrast to the divisive theatrics of elected officials. Read more about it on the New York Times and Tennessee Lookout.
Local: The federal corruption trial of former Tennessee House Speaker Glen Casadaand his former chief of staff, Cade Cothren, is underway, with a lengthy witness list that includes several sitting lawmakers. Among them are Republican Representatives Tim Rudd (District 34) and Charlie Baum (District 37) of Murfreesboro, highlighting Rutherford County’s proximity to the scandal. Casada and Cothren are accused of using a fake company, Phoenix Solutions, to funnel taxpayer dollars for personal gain through a kickback scheme. The trial, which Casada chose to face rather than accept a plea deal, is expected to reveal deeper patterns of misconduct within Tennessee’s Republican leadership. Read more about it on the Tennessee Lookout here and here.
Blue Business Spotlight
Looking for a thrilling adventure in Rutherford County? Assemble a group of family and friends and come down to Murfreesboro to Radical Escape Rooms. Radical Escape Rooms offers immersive, private experiences like 'Secrets of the Pharaoh' and 'Exit Protocol' that challenge your wits and teamwork. Support a local, Democratic-owned business right here in our backyard, and enjoy top-rated entertainment while strengthening our community!
Hear directly from the owners:
"We’re a family of four with a passion for adventure, puzzles, and bringing people together! Our dream became a reality with the launch of our very own Murfreesboro escape room, where we create unforgettable moments for families, friends, and teams. Every escape game we design is built with creativity, challenge, and heart - straight from our family to yours. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced escape artist, we’re dedicated to giving you a unique and exciting experience you won’t find anywhere else. Thank you for letting our family be a part of your next great adventure!"
Address: 1741 S. Rutherford, Ste.5, Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Website: http://radicalescaperooms.com
Phone Number: (615) 728-8339
Community Connections
Rutherford County Library Board Meeting
June 2, 2025 | 5:00PM | Linebaugh Public Library (Murfreesboro)
The board will discuss a March Resolution seeking to "remove material that promotes, encourages, advocates for or normalizes transgenderism or 'gender confusion' in minors." Please show up to speak out in support for our Transgender community members!
June 10, 2025 | 6:00-7:30PM | Virtual (Google Meet)
Stay up to date on what the RCDP is working on at our June monthly meeting! While only elected Executive Committee members may vote, all are welcome to attend and observe.
June 21, 2025 | 9:00AM-5:00PM | Bradley Academy Museum (Murfreesboro)
RCDP will be present and tabling at the annual Juneteenth Festival to celebrate freedom, Black history, and community. Be sure to stop by and join in the festivities, or sign up to volunteer with us!
June 21, 2025 | 1:00-9:00PM | Oakland's Mansion (Murfreesboro)
Celebrate Pride Month with us at RuCo Pride! RCDP will be present and tabling. Please sign up to volunteer and help us spread the message of equality and inclusion!
