The Newton County Republican Party elected local officials and state delegates Saturday morning as it prepares for the 2012 presidential election.

Delia Fleming was elected chairwoman of the local party by her fellow Republicans, following in the family tradition as her husband Ester served as chairman previously. Her son Tim Fleming is a Newton County Commissioner.

Todd Bowen, Ralph Brian and Darrell Harrison were named 1st, 2nd and 3rd vice chair respectively. Louise Strickland was reelected as secretary and treasurer.

The officials' main responsibilities are to organize and conduct monthly meetings, find and encourage Republican candidates and raise money for the party.

"We have a good group ahead. We know the 2012 election year is going to be active with the presidential race and I'm very happy that Delia is chairman. She has a lot of energy and being the wife of a (former) politician she knows the county and politics in and out," said Bronwyn Jennings, who took over the chairman position when Ester ran for state senate. Ester previously served on the Newton County Board of Commissioners.

In addition, 21 state delegates were chosen. They will travel to the party's May convention, where they will elect a state chairman to coordinate the party's efforts across Georgia.