Grant me the patience to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference. This wise saying was offered to me by my mother. Right now many things in the political world have made my head spin like in “The Exorcist”. After watching the news I make those same petrifying faces too. What do I put my energy into to make a difference?

The one thing I can change is to help get out the vote on November 8^th 2022. It will come sooner than I want. Pushing back against the Republicans to make sure my vote counts is the most important thing I can do right now.

The Petition Palooza on September 12th needs us to sign numerous referendums and initiatives. Because of the lack of votes in the down-ballot contests in 2020 Republicans got their way in the Arizona legislature this year. The bills they passed have my head spinning. Voter suppression is alive and wild, right here in our backyard. Referendums against SB1819, HB2569, and SB1485 are the countermeasures we need. Dumbing down the educations systems is another Republican priority. Invest in Ed (?) needs us to sign referendums against SB1827, SB1828, and SB1783. There are three initiatives, Dark Money, Justice for all, and Health Care Rising. With all of these, we can gain back our freedoms.

As part of the middle class, we understand the inherent link between a strong democracy and a healthy economy, and that the foundation of a strong democracy is voter participation.

Fly your American flags high in your front yard. We are proud American patriots. This is what Democrats do! We need to count on each other to make sure this happens.

See you at the Green Valley Democrats’ Headquarters on September 12^th, 10 am till 2 pm. Pen in hand!

George McGaughey, President

Green Valley Democrats