Our meeting this month focused on political action, including support for two Democratic candidates and the state supplemental budget; the need for strong leadership and unity; and the importance of showing up for democratic values.
Members offered perspectives on working with other activist groups, such as Indivisible, in coalitions, coordinating, and/or working independently; and the history of political and social movements and how different organizations, with different perspectives, and different approaches led to ultimate success. The chair spoke about responding to a rapidly changing environment and building relationships with new organizations.
There were reports from the chair, treasurer, and chairs of the DEIB, Engagement, Campaign, and Bylaws Committees.
Two legislators and two candidates spoke.
Members were encouraged to call their Republican legislators ASAP,before the Feb. 11 vote, and tell them to vote for LD209, the Supplemental Budget. The Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee worked to solve two main issues with this budget – the $118 million MaineCare shortfall and the crucial spruce budworm treatment. These are emergencies that need a 2/3 vote so there is not a 90-day wait for action. Nursing homes and our forest industry cannot withstand the extra time. Note: when asked, let them know your town even if you are not in their district.
For Waldo County, contact:
- State Representative Reagan Paul (R) (800) 423-2900, (207) 944-8033, Reagan.Paul@legislature.maine.gov
- State Representative Benjamin Hymes (R) (800) 423-2900, (207) 808-3413, Benjamin.Hyme@legislature.maine.gov
Find all Republican State Senators at https://mesenategop.com/your-senators/
Find all Republican State Representatives at https://mainehousegop.org/maine_legislatures/132/
Cooper Reed spoke about his campaign for the Swanville seat on the RSU 71 school board. The campaign has sent 300 postcards to Swanville residents. Cooper also mentioned his endorsement by Run for Something, a national nonprofit organization supporting young Democrats. Cooper will meet voters and interested public at Swanville’s Candidates Night at the Town Office Community Room, 6 Town House Rd on Wednesday, March 5th, 6pm. Call to confirm times subject to change (207) 338-4489. To volunteer on Cooper’s campaign email cooper4rsu71@gmail.com or Jeff Smith at jeffjapan055@gmail.com.
Sean Faircloth, who is running for the House District 24 seat in a special election took a break from canvassing to join us. He shared his concerns about the implications of the current political climate and the importance of standing firm for democratic values. Sean discussed the importance of showing that Democrats are not de-energized and the need for more organizing. He requested phone banking support for his campaign. The district includes parts of Veazy, Orono, and Bangor, and the election date is February 25.
We elected several new members to WCDC. We also elected at-large Executive Committee members Barbara Finch and Sue Conard, new WCDC secretary Sarah Hardy, and Chris Marshal as County Chair Alternate to the Democratic State Committee. Congratulations one and all!
Members were asked to start thinking about locations for WCDC monthly meetings and the 2026 caucuses.