What we need to do now

Graham Platner is out. Federal agents shot and killed an unarmed Maine driver on Monday. These two recent events are gut wrenching.

It’s tempting to join the endless Facebook discussion threads. A quick check last night revealed Facebookers continue to argue about Platner’s withdrawal--a full week after it was a done deal! Engaging like this accomplishes little and wastes your time.

It’s also tempting to escape to the garden or the beach and leave politics behind. I know, I do this! Everyone needs a break.

We need to allow ourselves to sit with the rage, sadness and fear we may feel in response to the news. I encourage you to take the time you need to breathe deeply and allow the feelings to settle. We live in emotionally hard times. Grounding yourself is a favor to you and everyone around you.

But—we must not check out for long. I’m grateful to everyone who protested in Biddeford following the shooting. If you called or emailed Sen. Susan Collins to demand that ICE funding—which she voted for—be pulled back, thank you! We must continue to show up and make our voices heard.

And then we must channel our energy towards what’s most important: Taking back Congress. To do this requires coming together across the country to:

• Build support for progressive and rational candidates

• Get out the vote

• Push back against cheating

Here’s what you need to know about cheating from former Republican leader Rick Wilson:

Cheating operations work on the margins. They flip close races. They exploit recounts, certification fights, faithless officials, and friendly courts. What they cannot do, what no operation in American history has ever managed to do, is steal a landslide.

The landslide that finally took out Victor Orban is a case in point. His defeat was so decisive, there was no coming back. We need to create a landslide here in November. And if we are clear, organized and focused we can do it—because we have the numbers.

Please enjoy your beach time. And then let’s come together and take back Congress!

Robert Reich describes five ways Trump might try to steal the midterms HERE. I will add that slowing down postal delivery is another strategy that I’m observing here in North Yarmouth. Please plan to vote in person in November!

If you’re a registered Maine Democrat, I urge you to participate in the process to select a nominee for US Senate. To do that you need to attend your county’s nominating meeting being held July 18 or 19 and volunteer to be a delegate. Delegates will then attend the Democratic convention July 25 to nominate a Senate candidate. The registration deadline is Thursday July 16th at 5:00 PM. To learn more CLICK

Hey friends, I’m the manager for the Clam Festival Used Book Sale taking place this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This year we have the best quality and variety of books we’ve ever had. Fiction, non-fiction, children’s, vintage and rare books are neatly organized under our big tent!

If you are anywhere near Yarmouth Maine I hope you will stop by. We are open Friday from 10-8, Saturday from 9-8 and Sunday from 9-4. The location? 116 Main St. Yarmouth. Look for the big white tent in front of a big white church!

All book sale proceeds benefit the Yarmouth Food Pantry, First Parish Church and a dozen community non-profits.

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