Democratic Chairwoman Susan Gwinn is one of the most prominent political figures in Athens County. But after a grand jury indicted her last week on several felonies, Gwinn must face reality and accept that her leadership of the party is over.
For the sake of area Democrats, Gwinn needs to hand over control of the Athens County Democratic Party. We suggest someone not under investigation for money laundering and theft be in office.
Gwinn has a long history in Athens politics. She began working for the local Democratic committee in 1986 and became the chairwoman a decade later. Possibly because of her actions, the party has been nearly unstoppable in local elections.
Let's face it: the job relies heavily on image. Gwinn is the face of a party that dominates this town and county. From campaigns to elections, she's the leader of it all. And because this fine county is one of the few Democratic-strongholds in Southeast Ohio, her position is a powerful one in this state's politics.
Of course, the odds of her legal troubles swinging Athens County from the Democrats to the Republicans this election season - or anytime soon - are slim to none. Few things seem likely to push the voters away from liberal candidates.
Still, it seems impossible for her to continue rallying the masses while legal troubles persist.
We don't know if she's innocent or guilty of those serious charges. Her job is to be the face of the party, and she cannot do that while under indictment.
Gwinn's arraignment for those charges takes place on Oct. 2. Election Day is Nov. 3. It can be pretty tough to organize for an election when you're in and out of court. Her fellow Athens Democrats realize that and, we hope, will do what needs to be done.
Editorials represent the views of The Post's executive editors.
4 Opinion
Indictment hurts local Democratic Party leader
