DON'T GRIPE — SUPPORT ALL DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES | |
Unlike the Republican Party, which has centered itself solely on Donald Trump, today’s Democratic Party is a raucous and diverse coalition representing a wide range of issues, perspectives, and interests. For some Democrats, that diversity can be frustrating and can even seem self-defeating. Primary battles between so-called mainstream and progressive candidates have intensified these disagreements—and left some party members feeling disgruntled.
We should welcome vigorous debate as an important part of the Democratic Party's evolution. What we should not do is allow disagreements over individual issues to become an excuse for withholding support from Democratic candidates in the general election.
We have seen the consequences before. In 2016, many Democrats sat out the election because they “did not like” Hillary Clinton. The result was the disastrous election of Donald Trump. Whether or not the current slate of Democratic candidates was your first choice in the primaries, the stakes are too high now to become self-righteous and withhold support that would allow Republican candidates to win. We need to fully support all of our Democratic candidates.
Consider the Michigan Senate race between Republican Mike Rogers and Abdul El-Sayed, who recently won a close and heated Democratic primary. During that contest, his opponents portrayed him as an anti-Semitic, pro-Palestinian progressive. But one of the clearest arguments for supporting El-Sayed in the general election comes from Steve Sheffey, a Jewish American, who writes a pro-Israel newsletter:
“The general election is not a referendum on Dr. Abdul El-Sayed. It is a choice between El-Sayed and a Trump yes-man, a choice between Democratic and Republican control of the Senate. If you have not become numb to Donald Trump and the threat he poses to our democracy, if you agree that these are the most consequential midterms of our lifetime, consider whether we'd be better off with one out of 100 senators with whom you disagree but with a Democratic majority running a Democratic agenda you share or whether you think the country would be better off with two more years of a GOP-controlled Senate and a pristine Democratic minority.”
Sheffey’s larger point is worth considering: in a general election, voters must look beyond their disagreements with an individual candidate and consider the broader consequences of the election's outcome. It is worth reading Sheffey’s full article: Abdul El-Sayed or Mike Rogers? In it, Sheffey acknowledges El-Sayed’s flaws and addresses many of the criticisms of him—but ultimately asks a larger question: Do moderate Democrats want their party to win, or do they want to complain about the left?
The same question applies throughout the country. We don't have to agree with every Democratic candidate on every issue. We don't even have to have supported them in the primaries. But once the general election arrives, we need to remember what is at stake—and get behind our Democratic candidates.
With conviction that we can win when we work,
Your Faithful Editor
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In This Issue
- Lamont Wins Primary
- Al Ginouves is Back!
- The 60-Day Checklist
- Save the Date: The SDTC Auction is Coming
- Things You Can (and Should) Do Now
- Join a Stand-out Protest in Your Community
- Other Upcoming Events
- In Case You Missed It
- Get These Other Sources For Action
- Did You Miss a Newsletter?
- Share Your News
- Tell Us What You Think
- Spread The Word
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LAMONT WINS PRIMARY
Gov. Ned Lamont won Connecticut’s Democratic primary for governor on August 11, defeating challenger Josh Elliott by a margin of more than 2-to-1. (Our DTC supported Gov. Lamont.) The race tested Democratic voters’ support for Lamont’s more moderate approach and marked the first primary challenge to a Connecticut governor in 48 years.
After conceding, Elliott urged Democrats to remain involved and unite for the November election. “The worst thing that people can do is check out,” Elliott said. “We need more people to be engaged.” Lamont praised his challenger, saying Elliott “ran a feisty campaign” and “raised very important issues.” As we Democrats turn our attention to November, Elliott’s message is an important reminder: staying engaged and participating in our democracy matters at every level.
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AL GINOUVES IS BACK!
Our former DTC head and friend to all, Al Ginouves, made a surprise re-appearance at our recent Saturday protest on August 22 accompanied by his wife and intrepid partner, Amy Lake. Al had spent many weeks in intensive care and physical rehab following severe complications from surgery this spring and only recently returned home to Lakeville. Although still recovering, Al joined the protest to the delight of all.
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THE 60-DAY CHECKLIST
We are now just two months away from the midterm elections. The results will determine whether Donald Trump and his allies continue to have a free hand—or whether we can begin to put on the brakes. If you’re reading this newsletter, you’re probably already concerned about the outcome. Now is the time to get busy—or, if you’re already engaged, to double down. Every day between now and Election Day is an opportunity to make a difference. Here’s a checklist of what you can do between now and the elections:
Register to Vote. Make sure that you, your family, and your friends are registered to vote. If you have moved, make sure you are registered at your new address. You can register online with the Connecticut Online Voter Registration System by Friday, October 16. After that deadline, eligible Connecticut residents can still register during Early Voting or on Election Day, November 3.
Give Money—Now. The window is closing, but contributions made today can still be put to effective use by campaigns and organizations working on the ground to reach voters and protect our elections. Looking for worthwhile organizations for giving? Look at our short list of suggestions further down.
Commit to Direct Action. Do whatever you can, given your time and abilities, to help influence the election. Join local or out-of-state door-knocking, phone banking, or postcard-writing efforts. Not sure where to start? Try some of the activities featured elsewhere in this newsletter.
Don’t Neglect Local Races. It’s easy to focus on the high-profile races for the US Senate or House. But “down-ballot” races for state Senate and state House seats matter, too. Local and state offices affect our communities directly, and they are often the ladder toward higher office. The winners of these races help shape the future of politics.
Take a Friend Along. Political action is more fun when you do it with friends—and it can multiply your impact. Invite someone to join you for a canvass, phone bank, postcard-writing session, or other activity. If they bring a few friends, the effect can really add up.
Make Your Plan to Vote. Decide now whether you will vote on Election Day, vote early, or vote by mail if you are eligible. Know your voting location and hours, and don't wait until the last minute. Voting by mail is especially convenient and easy, offering the options of returning your ballot by mail, by dropping it in a secure ballot box, or delivering it in person to your municipal clerk’s office. Voting by mail also shows you won’t be intimidated by the anti-mail voting rhetoric of Donald Trump (who actually votes by mail).
Make Sure Your Friends and Family Vote. Multiply your own impact by encouraging others to vote, too. Don't accept easy excuses such as, “My vote doesn't matter,” or “I don't like any of the candidates.” Important elections can be decided by extremely close margins, and the outcome might have been different if just a few more people had shown up. Not voting IS voting – to leave decisions to everyone else.
Work Now. Rest Later. Let's make the final 60 days count.
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SAVE THE DATE: THE SDTC AUCTION IS COMING
Mark your calendar for the Salisbury Democratic Town Committee’s auction fundraiser on Sunday, November 15 from 4-7pm at the Town Grove. In addition to many past favorites, this year’s auction will feature many items never offered before. Actor David Valcin will serve as auctioneer. David’s TV credits include Scarface, Person of Interest, The Practice, The Guardian, Law & Order, Rescue Me, Third Watch, The Good Wife, Monk, and Two of a Kind. He is also well known to our community for his great work as Chair of the Salisbury Board of Education. In addition to the auction, the event will include a raffle for valuable prizes. The event will start with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, with ice cream following the auction. Bring your friends – you don’t need to be a registered Democrat to share in the fun!
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THINGS YOU CAN (AND SHOULD) DO NOW
There is no summer off in Donald Trump's America. With the midterms just two months away, our actions are critical in shaping the election results. Here are a few suggested actions you can take -- both here in our community and remotely in battleground states.
Join Georgia Dems' “Ready to Vote” Initiative — Great Remote Opportunity!
The Georgia Democrats’ Voter Protection Team is seeking volunteers to join its Ready to Vote initiative. Starting now, volunteers will make calls to voters who may need assistance ahead of the election—those who have been challenged or purged from voter rolls, previously had absentee ballot applications rejected, or recently moved and need to update their registration. No matter the issue, Georgia Democrats are committed to ensuring every eligible voter is ready to cast a ballot this November. If you’re looking for a meaningful way to help, this is a great opportunity to make a direct impact from home. Sign up here.
Be a Hotline/Ballot Cure Volunteer in Wisconsin — 100% Virtual Work!
In Wisconsin, mail-in ballots are sometimes rejected for minor technical issues—such as missing signatures, improper sealing, or incomplete witness information. These simple errors can prevent votes from being counted. Fortunately, the Wisconsin Democrats (WisDems) run a highly effective ballot cure program that contacts voters and helps them fix these issues in time. As a volunteer, you’ll reach out to voters whose ballots need curing—people who have already voted and are typically grateful for assistance. This is an easy, high-impact way to help protect the vote, and it can be done remotely from anywhere in the country. Sign up here.
Volunteer to Re-Elect Maria Horn
Our stalwart state rep, Maria Horn, is looking for our help reaching voters through doorknocking and phone banking. Doorknocking events are scheduled in several towns in September and October. It's fun and rewarding -- and one of the most effective ways to engage voters. You’ll talk with neighbors about the issues that matter to them and share information about Maria’s work. If you’re new, don’t worry — you’ll receive training and all the materials you need and will be paired with an experienced volunteer. Click to sign up for doorknocking.
Can't doorknock? Consider helping Maria by signing up to phonebank. Her campaign is hosting virtual phonebanks (VPBs) from now until Election Day. You make calls to voters in the district from your home using your computer/tablet and your phone. The campaign will provide all the training you need, including the scripts, phone numbers, and other information for making the calls. You can schedule a time to make calls anytime that works for your schedule. It's a fun and easy way to share with your neighbors your enthusiasm for Maria and the other candidates on the Democratic ticket. Click to sign up to phonebank. Contact Cindy Barrett at cbingoshen57@gmail.com or at (860) 781-5066 with any questions.
Volunteer for CT State Senate Candidate Aaron Zimmer
Aaron Zimmer is running for the CT State Senate in our district (30th District). This is a seat that Democrats have not held for nearly 50 years, but this time could be different. The campaign is shifting into high gear. Canvasses are starting and the digital teams are mobilizing. Volunteers across the district are stepping up because they know what's at stake. Aaron is now actively recruiting volunteers to knock on doors or call voters (training provided), share about Aaron’s campaign on social media, be a driver, and other important tasks. Grassroots campaigns don't win because of one candidate. They win because an army of neighbors decides to do something. Please sign up to volunteer.
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JOIN A STAND-OUT PROTEST IN YOUR COMMUNITY
There are more towns than ever with regular protests. Keep building the pro-democracy momentum that's sweeping our country. Show up at one of the protests happening every week in our area. Bring a sign or a flag if you can—but what matters most is simply showing up.
Saturdays
Salisbury - 11am-noon at the Salisbury Town Green at the White Hart Inn, 15 Under Mountain Road, Salisbury.
Litchfield - 11am 46 West Street, Litchfield Green.
Torrington - 11am-noon at Coe Park, 101 Litchfield Street, Torrington.
Cornwall - 12 noon at the triangle intersection of Routes 4 and 7 South in Cornwall Bridge.
Amenia - 12 noon at Fountain Square, corner of Routes 22 and 343.
New Milford - 12 noon - Protest and Food/Diaper Drive at the Old East Street School near CVS, 50 East Street, New Milford.
Kent - 2-3pm - At 50 North Main Street, north of the Welcome Center.
Fridays
Sheffield (MA) - Stand-Out Protests in Sheffield (MA) - 4-5pm at Main Street (Rt. 7), across from Roberto’s Pizza. Contact Ricky Bernstein for details at rickypenrose@gmail.com.
Other Days
The Berkshire Visibility Brigade is holding standouts on the Mass Pike overpasses in Stockbridge, West Stockbridge, and Lee (MA) on Sundays, Wednesday, and Thursdays. Click for details and sign-up.
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OTHER UPCOMING EVENTS
Thursdays, September 3, 10, 17, & 24 from 2-3:30pm - Postcarding at the White Hart. Saving Democracy's postcard group meets in the Garden Room at the White Hart. You are welcome to sit and write in the Garden Room, take your cards to a table on the lawn, or just stop by to pick up a packet to complete another time. Sarah Zarbock and John Hoffman will also have a box with packets of postcards on the bench by their front door and you can grab a bunch during daylight hours...no need to ring the bell, just take a packet or two from the box. They are at 37 Chatfield Drive in Lakeville. To receive updates and future event information, join the Saving Democracy email list by contacting kathyvoldstad@gmail.com.
Thursdays, September 3, 10, 17, & 24 at 3pm: What’s the Plan? Weekly Call with Indivisible’s Founders. The chaos coming out of the White House is a deliberate strategy to sow confusion and make us believe we are powerless to fight back. The antidote? Coming together as a community to cut through the noise and unite around strategies for resistance. Join Indivisible co-founders Leah Greenberg and Ezra Levin each week for an hour to discuss what’s happening—and, more importantly, what's the plan. These calls can be very uplifting! Click for details and registration.
Tuesday, September 15 at 1pm: Will the Midterms Happen? Presented by Votebeat, a nonprofit newsroom specialized in explaining how elections work. Each of its reporters and editors spend every day covering voting rules, election administration, misinformation, election lawsuits, local officials, and the systems that determine how ballots are cast and counted. Submit your questions to Votebeat reporters, and they’ll answer them live on Sept. 15. RSVP for free registration and the webinar link to submit your questions.
Tuesday, September 15 at 7pm: Salisbury Democratic Town Committee. This regular meeting of the SDTC will be held at Town Hall and on Zoom. Please email Info@salsdems.com to receive a copy of the agenda and the link to the meeting. All are welcome. The Zoom link will also be posted at www.salisburydemocrats.com.
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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
How to Get Your Son to Vote. Many parents and grandparents wonder how to talk to a son or grandson who has become cynical about politics—or simply sees no point in voting. A new article by researcher John Della Volpe from Harvard’s Institute of Politics draws on interviews with young men to explore why some have checked out and, more importantly, what family members can do to engage these disaffected family members. Della Volpe offers five practical approaches: lead with the trust that already exists within the family, listen to cynicism rather than immediately arguing against it, connect voting to concerns that matter in everyday life, make voting a concrete and shared activity, and avoid pressure that may cause young people to shut down. The central message is encouraging: while many young men may distrust politicians, institutions, and the media, family relationships can still provide an important opening. Read Della Volpe’s full article on his Substack.
Why Working-Class People Account for Around 1% of Lawmakers. Both major US political parties regularly tout their commitment to working-class Americans and claim to represent the working class. Yet neither Democrats nor Republicans nominate many candidates who have spent substantial portions of their careers in working-class jobs. Two political science professors, Noam Lupu of Vanderbilt University and Nicholas Carnes of Duke University, who have studied the problem argue that this near-absence of people from working-class jobs in the halls of power matters: safety-net programs are stingier, business are weaker, and protections for workers are less robust than they might be if people with working-class backgrounds held office at higher rates. To learn more, read the authors' full article in The Conversation.
Flock Cameras Near You. Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs)—often called Flock cameras—are small, unobtrusive cameras that automatically record the license plates and other physical characteristics of passing vehicles. They store this information, which police can use to enforce traffic laws or use as evidence in criminal investigations.
Flock Safety has quietly built one of the largest mass-surveillance networks, deploying more than 120,000 ALPRs across the US. Cameras have been deployed in and around the Northwest Corner in Litchfield, Torrington, Millerton, and Amenia, and other towns are considering them. Click to see a map showing where Flock cameras have been installed. However, there are growing concerns that ALPRs may be abused by law enforcement agencies, ICE, and the private companies with which Flock shares or sells access to the information. Read more about the uses and potential abuses of this technology in MotorBiscuit.
Dems' Vocab Trap. Are Democrats using "woke" words that are alienating some voters? Some potential Democratic presidential contenders think so. Read some examples in this short article in Axios.
| | GET THESE OTHER SOURCES FOR ACTION | |
Because we publish only once a month, there are many events that never make it into our pages. To keep informed about those events, we strongly suggest that you subscribe to some of the excellent, more frequent sources that are listed below.
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Robert Hubbell's Today's Edition provides daily analysis and commentary on the latest political happenings and practical suggestions for what citizens can do. He started the newsletter in 2017 to provide hope and perspective to his family after the unexpected results of the 2016 election. Over time, his family email was shared among friends and became of community of like-minded citizens devoted to preserving American democracy. Click to read his latest posts and subscribe.
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Jill Drew’s Today's Action Daily Blast – This twice-a-week email suggests a single, focused calling action to our public officials each day, most often providing carefully-researched sample scripts along with the contact information for calling US Senators and Representatives serving Northwestern Connecticut and the adjoining area of New York’s Hudson Valley. To sign up email jill@jilldrew.com.
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Saving Democracy email - Indefatigable activist Kathy Voldstad provides announcements of actions for people in and around Salisbury and elsewhere. Kathy's emails also provide inspiration that we all need in times like these. To sign up, email kathyvoldstad@gmail.com.
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Jessica Craven's Chop Wood, Carry Water – This is one of our perennial favorites. Activist Jessica Craven provides daily suggestions on easy actions that each of us can take. Read it here and subscribe free for her daily dose of actions.
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DID YOU MISS A NEWSLETTER?
The entire archive of past newsletters is available at the Salisbury Democratic Town Committee website.
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SHARE YOUR NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Please send us any news or announcements that you would like us to share with our community. We publish on the first of each month, so please send us any submissions at least one week in advance. Please submit to the editor at salsdemsnews@gmail.com.
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TELL US WHAT YOU THINK
We love hearing from you, our readers. Every edition of our newsletter is created with you in mind — to inform, engage, and inspire. But your feedback helps us do our job better. Drop us a note — even a few lines can make a big difference. Reach us anytime at salsdemsnews@gmail.com.
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