Yep, I'm a Democrat

I am a registered Democrat. I stood in the rain in Copley Square in 2004 when John Kerry lost and I celebrated in Cambridge in 2008 when Barack Obama won. I still have my Elizabeth Warren yard sign from 2013. I donated to Hilary Clinton in 2016. I phone banked and knocked on doors in 2018 to win back the House. I cried as I watched Pete Buttigieg announce his historic candidacy in 2019 and prayed for the soul of America with Joe Biden in 2020. I supported Amber Hewitt in 2020 and Dawne Shand in 2022. And I beamed as Maura Healey spoke at Newburyport City Hall to raise the Pride flag in June. 

I support Democrats because their policy positions align with my values. Party affiliation isn’t part of a municipal race and has become polarizing in national politics, but I want you to know where I stand. I don’t agree with Democrats 100% of the time, and I am open to a debate on the issues, in fact I welcome it, because I believe in our platform. 

Everyone deserves a level playing field. Those who have achieved success should pay their fair share. A quality education is a right, not a privilege. Healthcare should be affordable for all. Our immigration system needs reform, and those who are here should be treated with respect and dignity. Working families are the backbone of our economy. Climate change is real and requires bold action now. 

My mom was a public school teacher for over 25 years and my dad was a small business owner. I paid my way through school with whatever help my parents could provide and started my adult life saddled with student loan debt that I eventually paid off. I benefited from the pioneers of the LGBTQ+ equality movement so that by the time I started my first corporate job, I could be out in the workplace - and eventually have my marriage recognized at the federal level. Because of them, I continue the work so the next generation will find the path a little smoother.

If I am elected Ward 4 City Councilor it won’t matter that I’m a Democrat on lots of issues. But the fact that I am should tell you something about my beliefs and how I will make decisions on issues: with empathy and everyday people first.