As the vibrant colors of summer begin to fade, and the crispness of autumn fills the air, we find ourselves on the cusp of a season that holds immense significance for our party and our nation. Fall not only brings a change in the weather but also marks the beginning of an exciting and pivotal election season. It's a time when the leaves fall, but our determination rises as we work together to shape the future we envision. Remember, on Halloween, our democracy has a treat in store for us as mail-in ballots drop. It's our chance to make our voices heard and our choices count. Read on for exciting updates about the Primary election results, ways you can get involved, and how your donations are going to support Democrats all across Salt Lake County.
Congratulations to all the Candidates who Won their Primary Races
Brighton At Large: Adrienne Aldous
Cottonwood Heights 2: Sharon Daurelle
Murray 1: David Rodgers
Murray 3: Rosalba Dominguez
Sandy At Large: Aaron Dekeyser
West Jordan 2: Bob Bedore
West Valley 1: Marni LeFevre
Draper At Large: Jordan Davis
WVC At Large: Don Christensen, Sophia Hawes-Tingey
Direct Candidate Support in Municipal Races With ballots for the General election dropping around Halloween we are already working to support the 60+ candidates on the ballot this fall. We have revamped our Candidate Engagement and Events committee which is working hard to make sure each candidate has a plan to win this election and that we are doing everything we can to support them. Just like during the Primary election, one way we are supporting these candidates is through a GOTV texting program. We have a plan to send at least 60,000 text messages to strong Democrats in every contested race on the ballot this year. Several of these races were decided by single digit votes last time they were on the ballot, so this texting program has the potential to make a big difference in each of these races. Sending texts isn’t cheap though and we could use the help. If everyone who reads this newsletter gave just $5 dollars, it would pay for this whole texting program and allow us to send an additional 45,000 texts reminding Democrats to vote. What can you do to help?
What’s Up Next
We’re recruiting candidates to run for local school board in 2024! If you know a parent, teacher, or education professional who wants to make a difference in their community, let us know! No prior campaign experience is necessary, and we’re here to provide all of the training and support needed!
Canyons School Board 1, 3, 7
Granite School Board 4
Jordan School Board 1, 4, 5, 6
Murray School Board 1, 5
Salt Lake School Board 2, 7
Run for school board
We’re also planning ahead for all of the 2024 County races. There are several county council seats and countywide positions coming up for election next cycle. If you know a surveyor or assessor who might be interested in running, please email us at: slcounty@slcountydems.com.
Launch of the House District Grant Program and a House District Chair Spotlight
In September, we launched our House District Grant Program 🏡💰 Now, HD Chairs have the opportunity to apply for grants to spark growth and change in their areas. Teams may apply for the grant for projects directly related to our mission and strategic plan. How might Turner Bitton use the funds? Let’s find out!
What’s your favorite thing about your community? My favorite thing about Glendale and the broader Salt Lake City community is the diverse and inclusive culture. I love that I have neighbors from all over the world who call our neighborhood home. Our neighborhood also has symbols of this in the form of the International Peace Gardens and the Jordan River Peace Labyrinth.
What is the one thing you would try to fix to make the world a better place? If I could fix anything it would be to make sure that everyone understood their power as an individual and as part of a community to make action to improve their communities. If everyone knew the power they have to improve the communities they live in and had the tools to navigate our complex democratic systems, our world would be transformed.
What motivated you to become involved in the Democratic Party? I have been involved in the Democratic Party for over a decade in different roles. I began my involvement when I became the Secretary, and later Vice Chair, of the Weber County Democratic Party. After moving to Salt Lake City in 2018, I began to get involved in my new community here in Salt Lake City. I believe in what we can accomplish together as a party and I spend my time sharing the values of the party with the people I love and my neighbors.
In Closing…
In the coming weeks and months, I urge you to find a candidate who resonates with your values, beliefs, and vision for our community and nation. Whether you can volunteer, donate, or simply lend your voice and support, every effort matters. Together, we will be the change we wish to see.
Let this autumn be a season of unity, engagement, and progress. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our cause. Together, we will make a difference that will be felt for generations to come.
In solidarity,
Chair Jade Velazquez
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