McHenry Co. parties choose new leaders

Narrowly divided McHenry County Democrats chose new leadership Wednesday night, while their Republican counterparts opted to stick with what they see as a good group at the top of their party hierarchy.

Democrats elected Lake in the Hills resident Michael Bissett as their party chairman, choosing him in a 785-782 vote over incumbent chair Kathleen Bergan Schmidt. Each vote represents one ballot cast in February's primary, with precinct committeemen committing the number of votes from each of their precincts to their chosen candidate.

"I really believe the party is looking to move up to the next level," said Bissett, a marketing and communications professional who recently started his own business. "I think my background is a good fit for doing that."

Bissett, who is married to McHenry County Board member Paula Yensen, said he has worked behind the scenes on several Democratic campaigns, including those of his wife and fellow county board member Jim Kennedy, also of Lake in the Hills.

Bergan Schmidt, a longtime party veteran and also a county board member, was first elected to the post two years ago in an uncontested race.

Despite the close vote that won him the two-year term, Bissett said he is not concerned about a split in the party carrying over into this fall's elections.

In the meantime, Republicans re-elected State Rep. Mike Tryon of Crystal Lake to another two-year term, along with all other party officers, in an uncontested vote.

"I think it says people are happy with the direction we're moving," Tryon said. "While there's always room for improvement, as long as you're listening and willing to work for change, people will support you and work with you."