BY SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
The Alabama Democratic Party is bringing new leadership to its top ranks with the hiring of Mark Onorato as the party’s new Executive Director, Chairman Randy Kelley announced Tuesday.
Kelley said the appointment marks a significant step in strengthening the party’s statewide operations and preparing for competitive election cycles ahead.
“Mark is our new Executive Director and brings an array of field and legislative experience to the table,” Kelley said. “We look forward to the knowledge and fresh energy he will bring to our organization.”
Onorato brings a diverse background in political organizing, public communications, and legislative work. A graduate of Texas Tech University, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Image Management, a foundation that has shaped his approach to message development and outreach.
He began his political career as a field organizer for the Montana Democratic Party, building grassroots networks and engaging voters across rural and urban communities. His legislative experience includes serving as a legislative director in the Missouri House of Representatives and as a legislative aide in the Texas Senate, where he worked closely on policy research, constituent services, and state-level strategy.
In 2024, Onorato returned to field operations as the regional field organizer for the North Dakota Democratic Party, organizing volunteers, training staff, and coordinating voter-engagement programs across multiple counties. His work there earned praise for revitalizing rural outreach and expanding local infrastructure.
Now that he has stepped into the role of Executive Director of the Alabama Democratic Party, Onorato is expected to oversee daily operations, manage staff, and help shape long-term organizing and messaging strategy.
Kelley said Onorato’s experience across four states and three legislative positions qualifies him to bring a fresh perspective to Alabama. “Mark’s arrival will help us continue the work of building a more effective and responsive Alabama Democratic Party,” he said.
More details about Onorato’s plans and upcoming initiatives are expected in the weeks ahead.