It’s the 2nd day of early voting in Southold town. About 1000 people have voted on each day. These are record numbers. The poll workers explained: “People are really into politics these days.”
OK: it is an “off off” year. Based on past results we can expect about 25% of voters will come to the polls. Only the so-called “base”. Those of us who are really upset. So here is why that might include YOU.
- Are we heading into a major conflict in the Middle East?
- Should we continue to fund Ukraine‘s struggle against the Russian invaders?
- Does the election of MAGA firebrand Mike Johnson light your fire?
- A Man of the Right: Johnson, who until he emerged as the leading candidate for speaker was best known for leading congressional efforts to overturn the 2020 election, may be the most conservative speaker in U.S. history.
- 2024 Presidential Election: The speakership comes with broad powers. Could Johnson’s elevation to the role allow him to succeed in 2024 where he failed the last time?
- A Champion of Fossil Fuels: The new House speaker has questioned climate science, opposed clean energy and received more campaign contributions from oil and gas companies than from any other industry in 2022.
- The Trump Test: The developments that led to Johnson’s election underscored the extent to which loyalty to former President Donald Trump has become a prerequisite to taking power in today’s Republican Party.
- BTW our congressman LaLota voted for Johnson…and you can do something about that in 2024
- What about inflation?
- What about women’s control of their own bodies? (see next post)
- What about climate change: Over 200 health journals call on the United Nations, political leaders, and health professionals to recognize… a global health emergency.
The list goes on…
These questions are existential. Therefore we all want and need to, weigh in. We need to VOTE! Even if it is an “off-off” year and even though you might ask yourself whether local officials really matter? They do. Just consider local MAGA Republican, Manny Vilar, running for the position of Bridget Fleming, as a county legislator. Choose Ann Welker instead.
OK OK. Just VOTE! 🙂