It seems this October we are in for more tricks than treats. If you have been paying attention at all, I am sure you have seen and heard what the current administration is doing to bend and stretch the constitution and the rule of law. This undermining of the judicial system and set-up of an unprecedented power grab will be difficult to reverse. Machiavelli warned us centuries ago that unbridled power is a curse. “Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Many folks have fallen into despair and have become complacent, even paralyzed. We simply cannot give in to despair as that is exactly what will empower the Project 2025-loving GOP administration. We as Democrats have been accused of being weak and anemic, but that isn’t true. There are many ways and many competent groups fighting back and making a difference. That includes maybe what you have been doing to stand up and speak out.

From the start, litigation has been a tool of first resort in protecting people’s rights and freedom.  One group fighting the good fight in defense of democracy is the ACLU. During this administration’s first term, the ACLU filed 434 legal challenges, successfully blocking some of the most egregious policies. At the state level, the ACLU, with lawmakers, have worked to build a firewall for freedom and enact laws that protect people from government abuse. In communities, they’re working to educate people on what is at risk, what happens next, and how we can fight for our freedoms together.

A collection of Democratic governors, attorneys general and aligned interest groups have joined together in cooperation. Our own Governor Polis, and Illinois Governor, JB Pritzker, have formed a nonpartisan group focused on countering threats of autocracy. Other blue state governors are expected to join. West coast states have formed their own CDC to combat the “I’m not a doctor but I pretend to be” con artists who have taken over the healthcare system. This is why we must elect another Democratic governor next year if we don’t want to see the chaos in the country take over our state.

On a local level, this fall, we have Democratic mayor candidates. And planning now for next year, with any luck, we will have candidates running for County Commissioner. These are offices we can win due to the new redistricting. We need people to run. The commissioner office pays really well and has great benefits. We are also desperately seeking candidates to run for house districts. We need candidates for HD 64, 65, 48 and 50. If you or someone you know has any interest, please go to our website and fill out a candidate interest form to tell us of your interest and we can get you informed and on the right track.

Finally, don’t think that you can just sit by and watch what happens. You are a part of the Democratic response. What you do is very impactful. Coming out to protest is great, but if that is not your thing, participate in economic boycotts. One is scheduled in conjunction with the NO Kings protest on October 18. Call, write and email your representatives and tell them what you think and what you want them to do, especially you in CD4 and CD8. Keep the pressure on. Come and support Democratic events and candidates. Volunteer or donate to candidates you like. For more information on all the different ways you can get involved, visit our website.

Two weeks ago, we had a booth at the Frederick Miner’s Day event. We were so tickled to have a very bright 15-year-old boy come visit and he wanted to interview us for a school project. One of his questions was “Why do people see the Democratic Party as weak and ineffective?” We talked for a while and said that perception is far from reality. We asked him what he thought we should do. He said that we need a powerful unifying message that will resonate with everyone. He also thought we should be tougher and fight fire with fire and not be so nice. Sound advice from a 15-year-old in Frederick. That kind of made me think we are in better shape for the future than the doomsdayers might have us believe.

We have local elections coming up soon. Your ballots will drop in the next two weeks. Please support democratic and progressive candidates for mayor, city council, school boards, and other local offices in your area. As Tip O’Neill, once said, “All politics is local.’” Local races will affect you more than any others. Please remember that and get out and vote.

Bev Wallace, Vice Chair WCDP