Kevin Bernadt is the new chairman of the Lancaster County Democratic Party.

Bernadt, 30, a University of Nebraska graduate and small business owner, was elected by the county party's central committee at a meeting Tuesday night.

Bernadt succeeds Justin Carlson as Democratic chairman.

Among his immediate goals, he said, are reaching out to local minorities, increasing Democratic voter registration and emphasizing fund-raising support for Democratic candidates.

"I look forward to assisting our many great candidates to victory," Bernadt said,

Sally Herrin was elected first associate chairperson and Rick Carter was named second associate chairperson.