Stephen Webber elected state Democratic Party chairman

The Missouri Democratic Party elected Stephen Webber as its chairman Saturday at Lincoln University.

Webber is replacing Roy Temple, who has held the leadership position since 2013.

“It has been an honor to serve as the Chair of the Missouri Democratic Party,” Temple said in a statement. “I look forward to working with Chairman Webber and Democrats across the state to hold Republicans accountable for the harmful agenda they are poised to pursue in Missouri.”

Webber has represented Columbia the past eight years in the Missouri House of Representatives. He also served two tours in Iraq as a Marine. In November, he lost to Caleb Rowden in the state Senate race.

“The Democratic Party stands for public education and working families, and I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead Democrats as we fight for these important values,” said Webber in a statement Saturday.

The committee also elected Genevieve Williams as vice chair, Clem Smith as secretary, and Lauren Arthur as treasurer.