05. August 2023 · Comments Off on Ag and Rural Caucus -Celebrating Ken Caylor · Categories: Committee News, Recent Events

Celebration of Ken Caylor’s Life

Celebration of Life

Ken Caylor
2:00 pm 
5 August 2023
Othello Senior Center
755 N 7th 
Othello

Ken Caylor

Ken Caylor passed 14 June. Ken was a giant among Democrats, an ARC founder, and a personal mentor. I first met Ken in his role as chair of the State Party Resolutions Committee, a role that he held many years. I held him in awe as he would work with both the large egos of committee members and the technical detail of the submitted resolutions. He was a master of shepherding the flood of paperwork to the Central Committee floor in a coherent form. He had a gift for gently letting people know that their pet project did not quite make the cut. I learned from Ken only a few of the many ways he was able to say “no” and leave people understanding why. 

Ken was a passionate advocate for rural Washington, and especially eastern Washington. He returned to the floor time after time to speak against ill-considered resolutions targeting farming and rural culture. Calls to remove precipitately the Snake River dams without regard for the consequences were an insult to his values and his judgement, and he communicated both effectively.

I will miss Ken. He was a gentle, wise friend.

Please join Barb, his partner in life and politics, in a celebration of Ken’s life.

Don


Copyright © 2023 Ag and Rural Caucus, All rights reserved.
Ag and Rural Caucus of State Democratic Central Committee
Our mailing address is:
Ag and Rural Caucus
2921 Mud Creek Rd
Waitsburg, WA 99361
03. August 2023 · Comments Off on Ag and Rural Caucus -Better Practices – August 2023 · Categories: Committee News, Recent Events

ARC August Better Practices

August Schedule

6:30 pm Thursday 3 August
 Better Practices 

Advocacy: How to be effective in Olympia
Dean Takko
Brian Blake

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81582823697?pwd=V1FaVlV3Ly8xTHFBTTZZM1VxblVjQT09


Better Practices

Advocacy: How to be effective in Olympia
Dean Takko
Brian Blake

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81582823697?pwd=V1FaVlV3Ly8xTHFBTTZZM1VxblVjQT09

Advocacy: Fit into Legislator Calculus?

Legislating is hard work. Emoting and passionate rhetoric may help set the agenda. Getting something actually done, though, not so much. We tend to underestimate the skills politicians bring to the legislature. Legislators need subject knowledge, sure, but they also need social skills and comfort using them.

Rural Democrats, especially, do not go into their caucus with a ready-made majority. They need first to persuade their urban colleagues. Often their urban colleagues will have no life knowledge of rural concerns. Rural Democrats need to win at least twice: In their own caucus first and then in committee and on the floor.

Why is this important to those of us aspiring to be effective advocates? Because we need to fit into the legislators’ world, their calculus. We need to do our own homework. Most of us don’t bother. And we are not particularly effective.

This is all me speculating. Join Brian and Dean Thursday to get the blood behind these dry words.

Don
31 July 2023

Effective Advocacy, or just feel good?

When was the last time you received an email from your go-to 501C(3) asking you to push a button and send an urgent message to your legislator? About 15 minutes ago?

You felt good if you did push that button and signed the form letter. Your voice was heard. But how loud? Will it have anything to do with the solicitation letter that you will receive tomorrow?

On Thursday 3 August we are going to talk to Dean Takko and Brian Blake about what works to get legislation passed. And about what just makes us feel good.

Senator Takko and Representative Blake served LD 19 until the 2020 election when LD 19 shifted red. They know the inside game.

COVID had the good effect of pushing public testimony to legislative committees out to us. We could compose 60 seconds of persuasive text, Zoom in to the legislature and wait for our turn. If the committee ran out of time, we could always email copy of our text to the committee.

 I have done this. I have testified remotely on behalf of ARC…the Lorraine Loomis Act, EFSEC authority, Rural Commission, Cap-and-Invest, Clean Fuels, DOT-owned rail in Whitman County, Capital Gains tax, and so forth.

Was my testimony taken seriously? I mean did anyone recognize my arguments and their nuance? Or did a staffer put me in the Pro, Con, or Other box and report a count?

The count probably was not so important anyway up against the conversations I might have had with my local legislator. But usually did not.

Dean and Brian can help us understand what mechanisms we can use to counter the personal, day-to-day contact our legislators have with full-time paid lobbyists or local elected county commissioners or city council people, or simply their friends.

Personal networking, consistent messaging, setting the agenda early, neutralizing opposition, and solid homework…these work in our daily lives. Is it any different in the Legislature?

Join us. Share your experiences. Ask Dean and Brian for insight.

Don
25 July 2023

Three notes from our LD 7 conversation:

  1. Kathie Schutte reported that levies pass in Pend Oreille County’s three school districts. Schools are a point of local convergence.
  2. Anne Udaloy said that all candidates are running against Seattle. And Brian Blake talked about folks in Seattle demonizing rural values. Tribal identities are points of state-wide divergence.
  3. Brian Blake rhetorically posed “What would Democrats elected in LD 7 do differently than the current Republicans?” What’s our answer?

Policy Briefing

Have  you read about the flood of passport applications? I think most of Washington State is on the move next month. We will resume our Policy Briefings in September with opioids in rural Washington, and October we will take up community newspapers.

Don
25 July 2023


Our Better Practices roundtable is on the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 pm.. Use the link above for 2023.

Our Policy Series is on the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 pm. Use the link above for 2023. 


Copyright © 2023 Ag and Rural Caucus, All rights reserved.
Ag and Rural Caucus of State Democratic Central Committee
Our mailing address is:
Ag and Rural Caucus
2921 Mud Creek Rd
Waitsburg, WA 99361
28. July 2023 · Comments Off on WSDCC Wrap-up July 28, 2023 · Categories: Committee News

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Hello Democrats,

Can you believe that the 2023 Primary Election is in just four days? That means the clock is ticking and we must do everything in our power to support our terrific Democratic candidates and ensure they have a great showing everywhere in Washington! 

We have tremendous opportunities to build Democratic power at the local level this year and set ourselves up for success in 2024 and we refuse to waste a single second. 

In Spokane – the largest Washington city with a Republican Mayor, Lisa Brown could flip the city’s top office back to blue, and we have the chance to elect Betsy Wilkerson as City Council President and flip additional council seats for Democrats!

In Central Washington — Yakima and Sunnyside have county and municipal races that routinely come down to one hundred or fewer votes and we are working tirelessly to engage a diverse community of voters and ensure Democrats carry the day!

In Southwest Washington — We have key Port Commission and School Board races that we must win in order to get out the Democratic vote early and often and help ensure we can hold CD 3 next year!

In Pierce County — We’re fighting for Democrats running tight local races at every level to ensure we can continue building meaningful power in critical turf countywide! 

And this barely scratches the surface of the long list of critical local races we’re fighting hard for in 2023! Tuesday’s Primary Election is our first chance to prove to voters statewide that Democrats practice what we preach and will work every single day to improve the lives of each and every Washingtonian. Please join us in making sure we don’t leave a single Democratic vote on the table! 

We want to make sure you have all the tools, resources, and information needed to make your voices heard in this critical election. Click here to find your ballot drop box and share this link with your community and network to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to cast their ballot by August 1!

And if you, or anyone you know, is having any trouble with their ballot – please call the WA Democrats Voter Protection Hotline via 206-309-8683 (206-309-VOTE) as soon as possible so we can help resolve any issues. 

Today is the last day we recommend sending ballots back via mail — so if you find yourself needing to return your ballot between tomorrow and Tuesday, we suggest using a drop box. And remember, you can check the status of your ballot or print a replacement at votewa.gov

And if you haven’t voted yet, what are you waiting for? Please return your ballot ASAP to make sure great Democrats statewide have the momentum they need to win!

And if you’re curious about which Local Party Organizations have endorsed which candidates – check out this handy guide made by WA Dems Secretary Rob Dolin:

https://voterguide.info/

Thank you for standing with us in our efforts to get out the vote and support each and every Democrat running statewide. We couldn’t do it without you and we’re so glad to have you on our team!

WORKING FOR WASHINGTON

Last weekend I had the terrific opportunity to engage with Democrats in some of the most important local turf statewide!

On Friday, I was proud to join terrific Democrats including Attorney General Bob Ferguson, Congressman Derek Kilmer, and state Senator Emily Randall for the LD 26 Democrats Bridge to Bridge Fundraiser! This is one of the most evenly divided districts statewide and it is so important that we fight hard to protect and support our terrific Democratic candidates. If we want to win in 2024 and for years to come, we can’t let up for a single moment! 

Then on Saturday I had the great opportunity to share remarks at the annual Spokane County Democrats CC Dill Salmon Feed! Some of our biggest local races are in Spokane in 2023 and it was extremely exciting to join future mayor Lisa Brown and future City Council President Betsy Wilkerson on the speaking bill! We’re proud to have their backs in these critical races and can’t wait to get out the Democratic vote every single day between now and November! 

I also want to take a moment to acknowledge that Wednesday marked the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act – which has impacted millions of lives for the better by creating a uniform set of guidelines to ensure everyone can access and navigate spaces many of us take for granted. 

This Disability Pride Month, please join me in thanking all the hardworking lawmakers fighting for the rights of Americans with disabilities and recommitting ourselves to building an even more inclusive and equitable Washington and USA! 

DEMOCRATS IN THE NEWS

Washington’s governor on climate: ‘The Earth is screaming at us’

Gov. Jay Inslee said that the consequences of climate change have hit sooner than expected.

Washington to receive $5.6 million for apprenticeship programs

Senator Maria Cantwell announced Friday that the State of Washington is set to receive a grant of more than $5.6 million from the U.S. Department of Labor for its Registered Apprenticeship program.

Q&A: Rep. DelBene on new bill to save local journalism

One of the most promising policy ideas to stop the decimation of local newsrooms is back in play.

Keep in touch, stay engaged, and as always, thank you for all you do!

With gratitude,

Chair Shasti Conrad
Washington State Democratic Party

The work we do today wins elections this November. If you’re ready to elect Democrats in every race and every place in Washington state, invest in our efforts and make a contribution now


Want to support our work year round? Join Blue Washington, our monthly giving program! It is the most effective way to help candidates, volunteers, organizers, activists, and staff because it gives us the certainty we need to scale up our program with confidence. Your monthly investment ensures we can defend our strong legislative majorities, flip key congressional seats from red to blue, and fight for progressive values. Help us lead the way to victories at all levels of government today!

Washington State Democrats
PO Box 4027
Seattle, WA 98194
United States
21. July 2023 · Comments Off on WSDCC Wrap-up July 21, 2023 · Categories: Committee News

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Hello Democrats,

With Primary ballots in voters’ hands across Washington, it is officially election season! Thank you to all of you who are actively involved in GOTV efforts across the state and to everyone reading, if you haven’t already, please, *please* be sure to turn your ballot in as soon as possible! 

I had the pleasure on Wednesday to meet with the first Democratic Secretary of State in over 60 years, Steve Hobbs, to discuss how we can work together to protect the right to vote, counter misinformation, and make sure Washingtonians participate in the Primary. I even had the honor to receive a copy of the official seal of Washington State!

We want to make sure you have all the tools, resources, and information needed to make your voices heard in this critical election. Click here to find your ballot drop box and share this link with your community and network to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to make their voices heard come August 1. 

And if you’re curious about which Local Party Organizations have endorsed which candidates – check out this handy guide made by WA Dems Secretary Rob Dolin: https://voterguide.info/

Thank you for standing with us in our efforts to get out the vote and support each and every Democrat running statewide. We couldn’t do it without you and we’re so glad to have you on our team!

WORKING FOR WASHINGTON

I had the terrific opportunity to visit the North Central Washington Democrats this past weekend. It’s always so exciting and affirming to see the hard work happening on the ground across Washington State and I want to give a major commendation to each and every local Party organization and volunteer fighting for Democrats across Washington!

Now more than ever it is critical that we spread the word that Democrats are working hard for people across the nation! And I believe nothing underscores this fact louder or clearer than the investments the Biden Administration is making in infrastructure and communities across the country. Click the link below to see some of the amazing support coming to Washington State! 

The Biden Admin is getting real work done for everyday people everywhere in the country! Whether it’s creating jobs, fixing our creaking infrastructure, or bringing rural communities the communications technology they need to participate fully in a 21st century economy, Democrats are making it happen! 

Frankly, it’s impossible to take the Republicans seriously when they try to say that these investments are a bad thing – and I couldn’t resist sharing this video from the Biden team putting an amusing “spin” on a recent speech from far-right stooge Marjorie Taylor Greene. 

I’ll let you see for yourself, but let’s just say it’s amazing how much difference a little change of background music can make.

GET INVOLVED

With election season in full swing – we’re pleased to partner with our local organizations on terrific events statewide!

We hope you’ll be able to join us at the annual C.C. Dill Salmon Feed hosted by the Spokane County Democrats, where you can enjoy delicious salmon while connecting with local leaders and candidates. Don’t miss the opportunity to mingle with Democratic elected officials, including Lisa Brown (Spokane’s next mayor!) and Betsy Wilkerson (Spokane City Council’s next president!), along with other candidates from across Spokane County!

And we also wanted to share an invite to the Snohomish County Dems Summer Potluck Picnic at Lynndale Park on Sunday – we hope you can join us if you’re in the area!

DEMOCRATS IN THE NEWS

Biden announces his 2024 campaign headquarters

President Joe Biden will make his longtime residence of Wilmington, Del., the headquarters of his 2024 campaign, he announced Tuesday.

Senator Murray Secures More than $206 Million for Pacific Salmon Recovery, Over $30 Million for Violence Prevention, Mental Health, and Research Initiatives in WA, Alongside Key Investments to Make America Safer and Boost Economy in Draft Appropriations Bill

Senator Murray: “We cannot skimp on keeping people safe—and this bill maintains and builds on our investments to do just that.”

Gov. Inslee visits Vancouver’s tiny-home affordable housing community

Inslee called Fruit Valley Terrace “a perfect model” for affordable housing during a tour of the 21-unit tiny home community in Vancouver on Friday.

Keep in touch, stay engaged, and as always, thank you for all you do!

With gratitude,

Chair Shasti Conrad
Washington State Democratic Party

The work we do today wins elections this November. If you’re ready to elect Democrats in every race and every place in Washington state, invest in our efforts and make a contribution now


Want to support our work year round? Join Blue Washington, our monthly giving program! It is the most effective way to help candidates, volunteers, organizers, activists, and staff because it gives us the certainty we need to scale up our program with confidence. Your monthly investment ensures we can defend our strong legislative majorities, flip key congressional seats from red to blue, and fight for progressive values. Help us lead the way to victories at all levels of government today!

Washington State Democrats
PO Box 4027
Seattle, WA 98194
United States
14. July 2023 · Comments Off on WSDCC Wrap-up July 14, 2023 · Categories: Committee News

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Hello Democrats,

As of today, ballots for the August Primary election have been sent out and should be landing in your mailboxes soon (if they haven’t already). Please keep an eye out, and be sure to return your ballot as soon as you can! 

We want to make sure you have all the tools, resources, and information needed to make your voices heard in this critical election. Click here to find your ballot drop box and share this link with your community and network to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to make their voices heard come August 1.

Local races like these don’t often get much attention compared to state and federal level elections — but they are still critically important to the people of Washington State.

Local elected officials create ground-level policy that can have massive impacts on the lives of people everywhere in WA – and it’s crucial we elect terrific Democrats who will fight for their constituents rather than far-right special interests. These leaders also constitute our “bench” of Democratic candidates statewide. Don’t forget, today’s school board member could be tomorrow’s governor and we can’t let a single great candidate slip through the cracks! 

Supporting down-ballot candidates is a crucial part of our movement. From city council and the school board, to county commissioner, district attorney,  and other critical positions across Washington state — we have the chance to build up our Democratic values and vision from the ground up. You can learn more about each position and their impact on our local policies here.

Thank you for standing with us in our efforts to get out the vote and support each and every Democrat running statewide. We couldn’t do it without you and we’re so glad to have you on our team!

WORKING FOR WASHINGTON

I’ve spent the last three days in Chicago attending the annual Netroots Nation conference. It’s been a terrific opportunity to connect with great Democrats and progressive trailblazers from across the country, and I look forward to bringing what I’ve learned back to Washington State!

It’s so important that we remain on the cutting edge of organizing and data best practices if we want to have our best shot at victory in November and in 2024 and I want to say a huge thanks to conference organizers and presenters who make this work possible!

I’m also proud to say that I had the pleasure of speaking on a panel with my fellow Chairs from Michigan, Nebraska, and North Carolina about building Democratic power through innovative year-round organizing. 

It’s been an exciting few days — and I can’t wait to get back to Washington tonight and start putting the knowledge we’ve gained to work! 

DEMOCRATS IN THE NEWS

White House details plan to lower child care costs for low-income families

The proposals would strengthen the Child Care & Development Block Grant program, the White House said.

Inslee, Cantwell visit site of destructive Columbia Gorge wildfire

As Washington officials gear up for a tough wildfire season, Gov. Jay Inslee and U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell on Friday visited the site of a destructive fire burning in the Columbia River Gorge.

Federal money to help pay for breakwater, trails, other projects in Washington state

The federal government is chipping in about $130 million to support several Washington state projects that range from replacing a storm-damaged breakwater at a Port Orchard marina to helping a Native American tribe move from ancestral villages threatened by rising seas on the Pacific Coast.

Keep in touch, stay engaged, and as always, thank you for all you do!

With gratitude,

Chair Shasti Conrad
Washington State Democratic Party

The work we do today wins elections this November. If you’re ready to elect Democrats in every race and every place in Washington state, invest in our efforts and make a contribution now


Want to support our work year round? Join Blue Washington, our monthly giving program! It is the most effective way to help candidates, volunteers, organizers, activists, and staff because it gives us the certainty we need to scale up our program with confidence. Your monthly investment ensures we can defend our strong legislative majorities, flip key congressional seats from red to blue, and fight for progressive values. Help us lead the way to victories at all levels of government today!

Washington State Democrats
PO Box 4027
Seattle, WA 98194
United States
12. July 2023 · Comments Off on Marie Gluesenkamp Perez takes a dive · Categories: Committee News

Marie dives into pool for Wahkiakum students

Good fun and great success, for Wahkiakum students, Ron Wright, and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez.

From the Wahkiakum County Eagle, 6 July 2023:

If you thought Marie Gluesenkamp Perez didn’t keep her promises, you’d be all wet.

As the story goes, a member of the Wahkiakum School District’s robotics team asked the Congresswoman for Washington’s Third District if the team could push her in the pool if they won the qualifier for this year’s International SeaPerch underwater robotics competition. The year before, they celebrated a win at the inaugural qualifier with a dunking of their coach, Ron Wright.

She was heard to say yes, and in March, the Mecha Mules took first place at the qualifier.

Last Thursday following an informal town hall in Cathlamet, Perez and her team made their way up to the Cathlamet swimming pool, named for a predecessor, Julia Butler Hansen. While catching up with the robotics team, dressed for success in a two piece suit, Perez gamely dove into the deep end, then paused with the team for a few more pictures.

Perez spoke about the Mecha Mules during an address to the House of Representatives in Washington D.C. prior to the competition in March and their mention will forever remain in the Congressional Record.

Diana Zimmerman:

“Madam Speaker, I rise today to give a huge shout-out to the Wahkiakum High School Mecha Mules robotics team,” Perez said. “Somebody needs to make a movie about these guys. They are phenomenal.”

“Wahkiakum High School actually did not have hot running water in many of their bathrooms. It is a rural and in many ways, a very underresourced school,” she continued. “These kids ranging in age from eighth grade all the way to seniors placed second at the International SeaPerch underwater competition.”

“These kids really know their stuff,” she said. “I am behind them 100 percent, so much so that I actually offered or agreed to jump in the pool if they are successful in their next competition. We are proud of you. You have made your community very proud and I am very excited to see what you all continue to do.”


Copyright © 2023 Ag and Rural Caucus, All rights reserved.
Ag and Rural Caucus of State Democratic Central Committee
Our mailing address is:
Ag and Rural Caucus
2921 Mud Creek Rd
Waitsburg, WA 99361
07. July 2023 · Comments Off on WSDCC Wrap-up July 7, 2023 · Categories: Committee News

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Hello Democrats,

With the 4th of July fresh in our memories, this is an important moment to discuss freedom in America. The GOP constantly argues that they are the Party of freedom and personal liberty, while rolling back our rights every chance they get. One needs to only look at the Republican-packed Supreme Court’s rulings, to understand what I mean. If Republicans truly believe they are promoting greater freedom by limiting access to necessary and lifesaving health care, keeping millions of Americans in crushing debt, and facilitating discrimination against marginalized communities, they are in need of a serious reality check. 

We spend a lot of time talking about freedom in America — but for so many people across the country, freedom is still stifled or threatened. Financial freedom, freedom of self expression, freedom to pursue necessary healthcare, and freedom from prejudice, to name just a few, are far from guaranteed. Freedom only counts if it applies to all of us, and we must stand together as Democrats to stop the GOP’s relentless onslaught on our rights. 

I’m proud to say today and every day that Democrats are truly the Party of freedom and we are ready, willing and able to lead the charge toward a more fair and just society. Thank you for standing with us in this fight.

And let me take a moment to talk about someone who will do nothing to advance the rights and freedoms of people in Washington State. I was deeply concerned to see that former GOP U.S. Representative Dave Reichert is throwing in his hat for next year’s gubernatorial race. Reichert would bring an abysmal record to the seat – including a long history of opposing choice at every level. He’s also well-known to the voters of Washington State and presents a very real threat. We cannot let someone like this ever hold the Governor’s office in Washington State and we will work tirelessly to ensure this seat stays in Democratic control in 2024 and for years to come.

And don’t forget, Reichert is just one of the Republican threats we will face next year. With Reichert entering the race, Republican “also ran” Raul Garcia has announced he will step out of the fray in order to challenge Maria Cantwell in the race for U.S. Senate. There’s no doubt that the Republicans will continue to prop up dangerous, failed candidates who want to send Washington State backward and we must fight tirelessly over the next fifteen months to ensure they have no chance at clawing back the power we’ve fought so hard to win. 

It is so important that we start working now so we have what it takes to earn big victories next year. Thank you to each and every one of you for standing with us as proud Washington Democrats and putting in the work we need to win

WORKING FOR WASHINGTON

It may be hard to believe, but the August 1st Primary Election is less than one month away! That means ballots will be mailed out next week and we need every Democrat to show up and vote this August. Although local races like city councils and school boards don’t draw as much attention as their top of ticket counterparts, they are a critical component of growing Democratic power across Washington State! 

Local elected officials create ground-level policy that can have massive impacts on the lives of people across Washington State – and it’s crucial we elect terrific Democrats who will fight for their constituents rather than far-right special interests. These leaders also constitute our “bench” of Democratic candidates statewide. Don’t forget, today’s school board member could be tomorrow’s governor and we can’t let a single great candidate slip through the cracks! 

Please join me in wishing a huge thank you to every Democrat on the ballot this Primary season and an equally big thanks to all the terrific Party leaders and volunteers working tirelessly to make sure they have what it takes to win!

DEMOCRATS IN THE NEWS

Biden makes his economic case in deep-red South Carolina, says his policies add jobs in GOP states

Making his case for 2024, President Joe Biden declared in deep-red South Carolina on Thursday that Republican-led states are gaining factory jobs because of economic measures he pushed through Congress despite stiff GOP opposition.

U.S. Transportation Sec. Buttigieg visits Mukilteo ferry terminal

U.S. Transportation Sec. Pete Buttigieg, along with Gov. Jay Inslee, Rep. Rick Larsen, and Sen. Patty Murray visited the Mukilteo ferry terminal Thursday morning.

Rep. Marilyn Strickland Visits U.P.

U.S. Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) visited University Place to deliver a $190,000 check to the Food Lifeline Food Bank thanks to contributions from Fred Meyer, QFC and the Kroger Zero Hunger/Zero Waste Foundation.

Keep in touch, stay engaged, and as always, thank you for all you do!

With gratitude,

Chair Shasti Conrad
Washington State Democratic Party

The work we do today wins elections this November. If you’re ready to elect Democrats in every race and every place in Washington state, invest in our efforts and make a contribution now


Want to support our work year round? Join Blue Washington, our monthly giving program! It is the most effective way to help candidates, volunteers, organizers, activists, and staff because it gives us the certainty we need to scale up our program with confidence. Your monthly investment ensures we can defend our strong legislative majorities, flip key congressional seats from red to blue, and fight for progressive values. Help us lead the way to victories at all levels of government today!

Washington State Democrats
PO Box 4027
Seattle, WA 98194
United States
06. July 2023 · Comments Off on Ag and Rural Caucus -Better Practices – July 2023 · Categories: Committee News, Recent Events

ARC July Better Practices

July Schedule

6:30 pm Thursday 6 July
 Better Practices roundtable

LD 7: Where to start
Kathie Schutte, Lisa Wolfe, Katie Haven, Karen Keleman

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81582823697?pwd=V1FaVlV3Ly8xTHFBTTZZM1VxblVjQT09

Policy Series
Vacation: No Policy program in July



I wrote last week that LD 7 is big and it is red. Neither is unique to LD 7. LD 9 is very large as well. I have not calculated square miles but take a look at the map. And certainly, Grant County is red, as is Columbia County.

Is there something more? Tolstoy has it that “every family is unhappy in its own way.” Is each difficult district unique? Or are rural districts enough the same to permit generalization?

For some reason, the north counties feel different than it does in Moses Lake or Dayton. What may be shared is a perspective that nature is to be managed. Natural resources are to be employed to generate income, albeit in a way that keeps on producing (“sustainable”). There is more, but just what is it?

Thursday may start out as a nuts-and-bolts discussion of how to build a progressive party from scratch in a remote, rural community, but we may try to figure out what makes it so difficult.


Don


LD 7 is big and it is red. It takes four and a half hours to drive, in the summer. It is home to Washington’s backwoods radicals. The electoral trend for Democrats is not good. In 2018 Democratic LD candidates won 32 percent; 2019 the votes were 28 and 25 percent. In 2022 no Democrats ran for the house or the senate. Maybe not so bad actually, since no Democrats ran in 2016 either.

So, what do you do as a Democrat in LD 7? What is your first step, since you pretty much are starting from scratch? Or, are you?

Join Kathie (Kat) Schutte (PDO), Lisa Wolfe (ST), Katie Haven (OK), and Karen Keleman (DG) to talk about backwoods organizing.

For more about Washington’s backwoods radicals, check out OPB’s Bundyland podcast on Stevens County:  https://www.spreaker.com/user/oregonpublicbroadcasting/b2-finals-ep4

The series title is Better Practices, not Best Practices. We each have our own experience with what works well. Join us to learn from your colleagues and to share your own experience.

Don


Our Better Practices roundtable is on the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 pm.. Use the link above for 2023.

Our Policy Series is on the third Thursday of each month at 6:30 pm. Use the link above for 2023. 


Copyright © 2023 Ag and Rural Caucus, All rights reserved.
Ag and Rural Caucus of State Democratic Central Committee
Our mailing address is:
Ag and Rural Caucus
2921 Mud Creek Rd
Waitsburg, WA 99361
30. June 2023 · Comments Off on WSDCC Wrap-up June 30, 2023 · Categories: Committee News

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Hello Democrats,

I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling deeply disappointed and outraged by this week’s Supreme Court rulings, one of which will strike a massive blow to equity in higher education by effectively ending affirmative action in college admissions – while others will send our country backward by blocking student loan forgiveness and weakening critical protections for the LGBTQIA+ Community. As Democrats, we must do everything we can to fight back against today’s highly partisan court and protect the rights of all Americans. 

I wish these developments came as a surprise, but with the Dobbs decision just one year behind us, and countless other questionable rulings on the books – they feel like par for the course. Instead of the fair, just, and impartial body envisioned in the Constitution, today’s court is a hyper-partisan agent of the right and we must stand up against every single harmful decision they throw at us.

If we want to have any chance at fixing the Supreme Court and paving a path toward a more equitable and just future we must stand strong for our Democratic values and ensure we hold the presidency through multiple future appointment processes. We face an uphill battle, but we cannot and will not yield in this fight. 

While we still have a great deal of work to do – let’s not forget that Democrats are achieving big things for the American people. 

The first success I want to highlight is that the Biden administration fought and won to earn well-deserved sick leave for rail workers – a powerful victory for working people across the nation. With the largest worker strike in U.S. history impending – it has never been more important that we stand by our brothers and sisters in the labor movement and we commend the President for doing just that. 

I also want to amplify all the work the Biden admin has been doing to create jobs and spur economic recovery – I’ll let this White House fact sheet do the talking, but suffice it to say that “Bidenomics” are creating countless jobs and having a major positive impact nationwide.  

Last but not least, we should take note of the White House’s decision to allocate $42B to expand high-speed internet access to every American household by 2030. This will prove to be a huge boon to many rural communities nationwide that still lack access to high speed broadband and the benefits it provides. 

While it can sometimes feel like each step forward is followed by an equally large step back, we must remember to stay resilient and fight for what we believe in every single day. The simple truth is that when we do the hard work to elect Democrats at every level, they can and will do the work needed to improve the lives of people across the country. Thank you to all of you for standing with us in this critical fight.

WORKING FOR WASHINGTON

This past weekend I was proud to come together with Democrats from across Washington State to support great candidates and stand strong for our values! 

On Saturday I had the pleasure of speaking at the Franklin County Dems’ Valora Loveland dinner. A big kudos to Chair Ana Ruiz Kennedy for a great event. It was an honor to share the stage with great Democrats like Attorney General Bob Ferguson, Senator Manka Dhingra, and Senator Loveland herself to name just a few!

Then on Sunday I had the opportunity to join King County Dems marching in the Seattle Pride Parade. There has never been a more important time to stand in solidarity with the LGBTQIA+ community and we will continue to do so long after Pride Month has passed! 

DEMOCRATS IN THE NEWS

Biden announces $42 billion high-speed internet initiative

President Joe Biden is kicking off a more than $42 billion plan to give every American household access to high-speed internet by 2030.

Senator Murray speaks out against discrimination of LGBTQ+ Americans

This Pride Month U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) introduced legislation to ban harmful practices against LGBTQ+ individuals.

Murray, Cantwell Announce $1.2 Billion Federal Investment in WA Broadband Infrastructure

U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, announced that the State of Washington will receive $1,227,742,066 from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) to help expand broadband access to areas that remain without high-speed broadband.

“The consequences are severe:” Rep. Jayapal on fight for abortion access one year after Dobbs decision

MSNBC’s Alicia Menendez is joined by Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) to discuss the ongoing fight to protect abortion access nationwide one year after the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, and her efforts to protect the trans community from Republican lawmakers who are pushing anti-LGBTQ legislation.

Keep in touch, stay engaged, and as always, thank you for all you do!

With gratitude,

Chair Shasti Conrad
Washington State Democratic Party

The work we do today wins elections this November. If you’re ready to elect Democrats in every race and every place in Washington state, invest in our efforts and make a contribution now


Want to support our work year round? Join Blue Washington, our monthly giving program! It is the most effective way to help candidates, volunteers, organizers, activists, and staff because it gives us the certainty we need to scale up our program with confidence. Your monthly investment ensures we can defend our strong legislative majorities, flip key congressional seats from red to blue, and fight for progressive values. Help us lead the way to victories at all levels of government today!

Washington State Democrats
PO Box 4027
Seattle, WA 98194
United States
23. June 2023 · Comments Off on WSDCC Wrap-up June 23, 2023 · Categories: Committee News

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Hello Democrats and happy Friday!

After a few weeks traveling, let me say just how good it feels to be back in the great state of Washington!

I hope you’re all enjoying the first few days of summer and getting fired up for the terrific campaign season we have ahead. Don’t forget, hundreds of Democrats have filed to run in local races statewide this year and it’s up to all of us to fight hard to grow our Democratic power and build an even stronger “bench” of terrific local elected officials.

I also wanted to share a personal update. Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Association of State Democratic Committees (ASDC) meeting in Minneapolis. There are two big updates from this conference — first of all I was elected Vice President of the Western States Caucus! This is the same role Chair Podlodowski held and gives me a seat on their executive board. 

I’m honored to carry this mantle and don’t take the responsibility lightly — under my watch, we will make sure Washington remains a leader for our peer states and continues to be first in the nation in innovative organizing and data practices.

Secondly, the Washington Delegate Selection and Affirmative Action Plan (DSAAP) was reviewed by the national Rules and Bylaws Committee, and was the only plan on the West Coast to be approved, while both California and Oregon have substantive additional steps to get their plans finally approved. A big win for the Washington Central Committees rules and affirmative action prowess!

Thank you all for making this incredible work possible – we couldn’t do it without your engagement and effort!

DEMOCRATS IN THE NEWS

The Ms. Q&A With U.S. Senator Patty Murray: ‘Our Ultimate Goal Is to Put Roe Back into Law’

Our ultimate goal is to put Roe back into law. We don’t have the votes today, but that is our goal,” Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) told Ms. “A legislative body should not be deciding when a woman can get access to care.

Kilmer on mental health task force for military

Protecting the mental health of armed services members and reducing their suicides at Bremerton’s Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and military facilities across the country are the focus of a new effort taken by U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer of Kitsap County’s 6th Congressional District.

Marie Gluesenkamp Perez Reflects on First 100 Days in Congress

On Monday, May 1, U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, D-Washougal, celebrated her first 100 days in Congress. In a news release, her office highlighted milestones from her work in Southwest Washington and Washington, D.C.

U.S. Rep Kim Schrier’s new bill would allow for improved forest management using updated data collection

The new law will help foresters work together to make better management plans, one industry member said.

SAVE THE DATE

The 24th LD Democrats, with support from the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe, invite you to spend a day on the course! Your participation and donation will help support great democratic candidates! The 24th LD is currently the only rural legislative district in the entire state of Washington with full Democratic representation in Olympia. Let’s Rise and Organize!

Keep in touch, stay engaged, and as always, thank you for all you do!

With gratitude,

Chair Shasti Conrad
Washington State Democratic Party

The work we do today wins elections this November. If you’re ready to elect Democrats in every race and every place in Washington state, invest in our efforts and make a contribution now


Want to support our work year round? Join Blue Washington, our monthly giving program! It is the most effective way to help candidates, volunteers, organizers, activists, and staff because it gives us the certainty we need to scale up our program with confidence. Your monthly investment ensures we can defend our strong legislative majorities, flip key congressional seats from red to blue, and fight for progressive values. Help us lead the way to victories at all levels of government today!

Washington State Democrats
PO Box 4027
Seattle, WA 98194
United States