Democratic chair candidate resigns from ALEC

State Sen. Don Vaughan of Greensboro, who is running for state Democratic Party chairman, is defending himself from charges that he is too conservative.

In a statement to Democratic activists, Vaughan says he voted against Republican cuts to schools, against efforts to repeal the Racial Justice Act, against the Voter ID bill, against GOP efforts to limit a women's right to choose. He also notes that he received the Green Tie award from the League of Conservation Voters.

He also announces his resignation from the American Legislative Exchange Council, a conservative national group that has drawn fire from Democrats.

“Many years ago, when I joined the American Legislative Exchange Council it was a nonpartisan group which provided a forum for legislators to discuss issues,” Vaughan writes.

“However, I agree with the many others who have recently left ALEC. I recent years ALEC has become too partisan. Because of that, I am announcing my resignation from ALEC.''

He also notes that the plans to work to re-elect  President Barack Obama, something he didn't mention when announced his candidacy.

The state Democratic Executive Committee is scheduled to meet Saturday in Raleigh to find a replacement for David Parker, who is stepping down after criticism of the way he handled complaints of sexual harassment on the party staff.