Tyree Irving, the chairman of the Mississippi Democratic Party, rescinded his resignation on Thursday, but was later ousted from his position by the party’s executive committee.
Irving’s initial decision to resign came after he allegedly put a $250,000 donation from the Democratic National Committee to the party in jeopardy. The chairman lambasted state executive director Andre Wagner in a series of emails that were seen by DNC officials, causing fellow Democrats across the state to call for Irving’s removal.
Days later, the chairman revoked his decision to step away from his role within the party ahead of Thursday night’s committee meeting.
“My July 2, 2023 letter of intent to resign, if certain conditions were met, having neither been accepted nor acted upon, is hereby rescinded and retracted effective immediately,” Irving wrote to the executive committee.
During the meeting, Irving, a former Mississippi Court of Appeals Judge, was removed from his position by a 45-22 vote and was replaced by State Representative Cheikh Taylor, D-Columbus, by a vote of 44-14.
Taylor thanked Irving for his service to the party for the past three years, but acknowledged that Democrats need a “laser-focused” leader at the helm, especially during a crucial election cycle.
Irving has since threatened to sue the party for defamation on a petition that was drafted to have him removed as chairman. 2nd District Executive Committee Member Willie Griffin has also threatened litigation against the party for neither granting Irving due process, nor allowing the chairman to address the committee on a point of order.
