by Maggie Micklo '21, published Sept. 9, 2019
what are the dems up to?
We started the year off strong with our first meeting on Sept. 8th. Did you miss us? Come next week! We meet Sundays at 8pm in Blanchard 227. See you there!
At our first meeting, Communications Director Maggie Micklo gave a brief introduction to Massachusetts politics and the E-board shared some exciting opportunities coming up for Dems members.
- We are having a debate watch party! Join us on Thursday, September 12th at 7:45pm in Dwight 101 to cheer on your favorite candidate or to learn something new about some of the great Democrats running in 2020.
- Visit our website, mtholyoke.edu/org/democrats to see ways to take action and to sign up for any events.
in the pioneer valley
Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse declared in early August that he is running in the Democratic primary against Congressman Richard E. Neal. Neal (MA-01) is chair of the powerful Ways and Means Committee, meaning the race may be a choice between a “fresh face” or a seasoned politician at “the pinnacle of his career.”
Hampshire College welcomed only 13 incoming students this week, but appointed President Edward Wingenbach stressed the "opportunity to save" the college. "It will be a long process, but we're going to make it happen," he said.
state-wide
The Massachusetts legislature held a hearing on a bill that would make driver’s licenses available to undocumented immigrants. There are an estimated 185,000 undocumented immigrants in Massachusetts and they deserve the right to drive.
Republican Governor Charlie Baker will likely veto the bill if it is not passed with a large enough majority. Let your reps know that this bill is important to you.
Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) is up for re-election in 2020. Congressman Joe Kennedy III (MA-04) is considering a primary challenge against him, setting the stage for a high-profile race by a prominent name running on “generational change” against Markey, the Senate sponsor of the Green New Deal.
national news
While people in the caribbean and along the East Coast attempt to recover from Hurricane Dorian, many wonder how many more hurricanes they can withstand. Storms have become more wet and more destructive due to the effects of climate change, putting the lives of millions at risk.
- If you are able, donate to the Grand Bahama Disaster Relief Foundation.
There's an election this week! The last congressional race of 2018 is tomorrow, September 10th. The NC-09 special election is between Democrat Dan McCready and Republican Dan Bishop. The results of the original NC-09 race were nullified after a ballot fraud scheme by members of the Republican candidate's campaign.
take action!
Here is this week’s Americans of Conscience Checklist. It’s filled with clear actions for members to stay engaged and fight for democracy, equality, voting, and respect.
stories we saw this week
If you read an interesting story, send it along to mickl22m@mtholyoke.edu to have them featured in next month's newsletter!