May 15, 2022
AAPI Month
Mental Health Awareness Month
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Click on the Contribute button to help turn Montgomery County Blue!
Please consider becoming a sustaining member at $10 per month (or more!).
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In this issue:
Upcoming Elections!
May 24th Election
Candidate Q&A
Election Clerk & Judges Needed
Mental Health Awareness
Beto Signs
Laura Jones Block Walk
Robin Fulford
Fundraising Committee!
Biden's Corner
Final Friday Speaker
Education Outreach
Tweets
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Wally Wilkerson Memoriam
Shop the Blue Store (New Items)
Fourth of July Parade
Upcoming Events
This newsletter is published on or about the 1st and the 15th of every month. Email content for consideration to communications@mcdptx.0rg no later than 3 days before publication.
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Montgomery County Democratic Headquarters Hours
Hours of operation: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Due to the continuing spread of COVID, our policy now is for staff and visitors to comply with social distancing guidelines. The best way to reach someone at the MCDP headquarters is to call or leave a message at 936-703-5841 or send an email to mcdpoffice@gmail.com. For urgent matters, please text 404-431-6551 or email chair@mcdptx.org outside of office hours.
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Montgomery County Democratic Headquarters
704 N. Thompson St. #195
Conroe, Texas 77301
936-703-5841
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PRIMARY RUNOFF ELECTION – MAY 24, 2022
EARLY VOTING – May 16 - 20
Texas will hold its 2022 runoff elections on May 24 to finalize which Democratic and Republican primary candidates will be on the ballot in the November General Election. The winner of the Democratic runoff elections will face the Republican nominees as well as other potential nominees from the Libertarian and Green Parties, Independents, and write-in candidates in the General Election in November.
Early voting runs from May 16-20. Voting locations for the May 24th Primary Runoff Elections is now posted at www.montgomeryvotes.org. A sample ballot is also posted there.
Remember that if you voted in a party primary in March, you can vote only in that same party’s runoff. Voters who didn't cast a ballot in the primary can vote in either party’s runoff.
There are four races on the Democratic Party ballot. For information on the candidates in those races, see the article "Why are you the best Democratic candidate to defeat whatever Republican runs for your office?" in this issue.
Democrats in the Primary Runoff:
Lieutenant Governor
Attorney General
Comptroller
Public Lands Commissioner
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"Why are you the best Democratic candidate to defeat
the Republican who runs for your office?"
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Bart Ewald, Leon County Chair, put together this primer on our statewide candidates to help our Democratic voters know their statewide candidates better. He asked these candidates to answer the question, "Why are you the best Democratic candidate to defeat whatever Republican runs for your office?" and to do so in 120 words or less. Here are their replies:
Lt Governor candidates:
Michelle Beckley: Candidate Beckley's campaign did not get back to us on this matter. Her website is: MichelleBeckley.com.
Mike Collier: I have spent my career analyzing problems and bringing people together to find solutions. As Lt. Governor, I will prioritize strengthening our power grid, fully funding our public schools, and relieving the burden of property taxes. Dan Patrick has abandoned the principles that make Texas the best place to live and work and, instead, has enacted a strategy designed to exploit the people of Texas in service of his own political ambition. He has rejected local control, attacked the rights of local leaders to make choices for our communities, and he uses partisan politics to distract from disastrous decisions that redirect our state's financial responsibilities to individual Texans.
Attorney General candidates:
Joe Jaworski: I can beat Ken Paxton. I'm a mature, third-generation Texas trial lawyer with over three decades' statewide experience. I've litigated 250 civil lawsuits, mediated 5,000 disputes, argued a dozen appeals, and tried 14 cases to verdict. As Galveston Mayor after Hurricane Ike, I robustly defended Galvestonians' rights to live in safe, affordable housing. I fought the powerful University of Texas System in court, saving 3,800 jobs at the University's Medical Branch in Galveston. My grandfather, Watergate Special Prosecutor Leon Jaworski taught me "no man is above the law," and I entered this race because I believe that rule applies to corrupt Ken Paxton. November voters are depending on you to nominate a Democratic candidate they can support against Paxton. I am that candidate.
Rochelle Garza: I'm a 5th generation Texan, a Latina and a new mom. If Democrats are going to beat Ken Paxton, we are going to need a candidate who is qualified, understands what's at stake AND reflects the changing demographics of the state. As an attorney, I've worked in immigration, family, criminal defense and constitutional law. I defeated Trump, Kavanaugh and Paxton in a case that resulted in the "Garza Notice," named after myself, which requires teens in immigration detention be notified of their constitutional right to access abortion care. Our campaign received 438,000 votes in the primary, 230,000 more votes than our runoff opponent. This is a clear sign that voters are ready for a woman candidate like myself.
Comptroller candidates:
Angel Vela: I'm committed to serving and fighting for what is right, I will make decisions looking for the best interest of all Texans, not the special interest groups. I will ensure the state's fiscal stability to fund public safety & services. I will focus on transparency, accountability, and optimizing the office's capabilities to improve the taxpayer's experience. My priority is to establish a vibrant economy, and protect our children, veterans, and seniors. Advocate for our rural areas so they can have access to the resources they need. I am not a politician, I have 20+ years in finance, accounting, banking, operations, managing large budgets, revenue strategy, fixing inefficiencies, innovation, and building successful teams. Visit www.angelvega.com to learn more.
Janet Dudding: I have spent my entire adult life working as a governmental CPA. I have audited, accounted for, and investigated governmental agencies and public officials for more than 35 years. In fact, I am the only CPA running for Comptroller. I helped lay the groundwork for 'Operation Pretense' - resulting in more than 50 corrupt politicians going to prison for procurement fraud. It's not just the numbers that excite me about serving as Comptroller. Climate change is personal to me - I survived a hurricane. The Comptroller is charged with green jobs, and greenhouse gas reduction, and is in charge of the State Energy Conservation Office. I have the experience necessary to be ready on day one and the vision for a better Texas.
Land Commissioner candidates:
Jay Kleberg: I believe that I am the only candidate running that has a deep understanding of the General Land Office, the experience necessary to secure Texas as an energy leader and combat the effects of climate change, and the ability to marshal the financial and human resources required to defeat the Republican nominee in November. For too long, this office has been viewed as a political stepping stone, and we have elected Land Commissioners without the necessary experience to do this job. This office is our state's top environmental post, and we are already feeling the effects of climate change. We cannot afford to elect another Land Commissioner lacking the experience necessary to do this job and do it well.
Sandra Grace Martinez: With a B.A. in Political Science at UTSA, I was one of twelve students to receive the first coveted Gregory Luna Fellow Scholarship award. In 2007 I earned my master's as a Licensed Clinician at St. Mary's University in San Antonio, TX. I've been a Texas Senate Legislative Aide, a Texas Department of Criminal Justice Parole Officer, and investigator with The Department of Family and Protective Services. I am a certified and practicing licensed Professional Counselor with the Texas Behavioral Health Executive Council. My expertise in trauma-informed care, crisis management, and my legislative experience, equip me with distinct skills for developing better care for our Veterans, our children's education, and how we provide meaningful help to all our citizens during a natural disaster.
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Texas has new political maps. See which districts your home is in.
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No one is immune to mental illness. |
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In the last few weeks, four Montgomery County high school students, some from the Woodlands and some from Willis, have died because of mental illness or controlled substance abuse. Someone near you probably needs help. It is up to us to break the stigma of silence and it is up to us to reach out with kind words and resources if we feel someone we know needs support.
Jay Stittleburg, our recent Final Friday Speaker and member of the Montgomery County Behavioral Health and Suicide Prevention Task Force, provided us with insights and information in regard to suicide prevention. Here is a video link to his presentation:
Mandy Sunderland, our own Jewish Outreach Committee Chair, has shared her grief over her daughter’s recent death with others and has allowed us to share her grief here so that we can learn lessons from her family’s experience as well. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the Sunderland family and we thank them for their courage. May Irene’s memory be a blessing.
In addition, at last week’s County Commissioner’s Court meeting, it was announced that the Commissioners will put together a task force to investigate fentanyl use in the County, especially among teenage and young adult users. For information regarding this effort, click on this link to the Community Impact Magazine :
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Laura Jones Walks with Us!
Let’s Walk with Her!
Laura Jones will be walking in the Conroe area on May 22, and May 29, starting at 2 p.m. at Montgomery County Headquarters. She is looking for some fine Democrats to help her get out the vote. Other candidates and lots of walkers can join her for a real exercise in Democracy.
Now’s the Time!
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The Fundraising Committee Hard At Work |
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Fundraising at the County Convention was successful, and to build on that momentum, the Fundraising Committee is working hard to plan the next fundraiser, which is tentatively planned for late June. The Committee is planning a series of events that will enable the MCDP to fund its ongoing operations along with being able to better support our local candidates and precinct chairs.
Candidates need our support to win! Our Precinct Chairs are working hard to mail postcards, knock on doors, and make Get Out the Vote phone calls.
The Fundraising Committee meets weekly. If you are interested in joining the committee, please contact the Montgomery County Democratic Party Headquarters at 936-703-5841 or email us at mcdpoffice@gmail.com. Many hands make light work and new ideas are more than welcome!
One of the best ways to support the MCDP efforts is to become a sustaining member. Please sign up to send whatever you are able on a monthly basis. Donate through ActBlue.
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We suggest following Heather Cox Richardson’s series “Letters From an American”
if you don’t already!!!
Heather Cox Richardson is a professor of American history. She writes in- depth articles chronicling today’s political landscape, as she says “because you can’t get a grip on today’s politics without an outline of America’s Constitution, and laws, and the economy, and social customs, this newsletter explores what it means, and what it has meant, to be an American.”
An example of her writing that includes this quote “This year’s budget deficit will drop by $1.5 trillion, the biggest decline in a single year, easing inflationary pressures by keeping the government from borrowing.” can be found at:
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BIDEN ADMINISTRATION CORNER ! |
AFFORDABLE CONNECTIVITY PROGRAM
On February 14, 2022, Vice President Kamala Harris and FCC Chair Jessica Roenworchel held a televised address on Cspan on the subject of affordable broadband internet access for all Americans.
The Affordable Connectivity Program was introduced as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed last year by Congress and signed into law by President Biden.
The program provides discounts on broadband internet service from coast to coast. Eligible people may enroll to receive a $30 discount off their monthly internet cost. The discount for people on tribal lands is $75. A one-time discount of $100 off the purchase of a laptop, desktop computer or tablet is also available. One in four people are now eligible for vouchers to take advantage of this program.
During this address, Vice President Harris announced that a major milestone had been reached for this program. More than 10 million people have signed up for the program. That is almost a quarter of the estimated 42 million people in the United States who lack reliable and affordable high-speed internet service. The pandemic revealed the necessity of having internet service with people working from home, virtual school learning, ordering groceries and tele-med appointments.
The program allows opportunities for all people to learn, grow, prosper and live happier and more rewarding lives. Vice President Harris is calling on all internet providers to work with them to bring this essential service to all Americans. Vice President Harris and President Biden are working with state and local governments to reach all eligible people.
For more information about this program and to apply:
Call: 877-384-2575
Submitted by
Michael Stacy
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President Biden walks the talk! He has named the first black, openly gay woman to the position of Press Secretary. We embrace you, Karine Jean-Pierre! |
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Mary Hamm, Senatorial District Executive Committeewoman
for Senate District 4 to Speak on the May Final Friday!
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UNDERSTANDING THE STRUCTURE OF THE
TEXAS DEMOCRATIC PARTY
We are happy to announce that our long-time Senate District 4 Committeewoman, Mary Hamm, has agreed to give us all an introduction to the structure of the Texas Democratic Party at our Final Friday Speakers Event on May 27, 2022. Mary is currently our SDEC Committeewoman for SD 4 and has been our representative since June, 2014. She was County Chair for Chambers County for thirteen years, having first served as a volunteer and then as a precinct chair. She has also worked on a variety of campaigns.
Mary Hamm is a graduate of Lamar University with a Bachelor’s in Social Work. Lamar University was the first university in the state of Texas with an accredited social work program. She has worked as a social worker on the federal and state level. Ms. Hamm currently works for the Office of Injured Employee Counsel as an Ombudsman III where she assists injured employees in developing their cases within the Workers Compensation system and presenting them in mediation and court.
She has promised to decode the alphabet soup of our organization and to lead us through the levels of governance within the Democratic Party just in time for the State Democratic Convention that is being held this year in Dallas on July 14 – 16. She will also explain the purpose of the State Democratic Executive Committee and the Senate District Caucuses and how it came to be that Montgomery County will be electing 2 SDEC members from each of three Senatorial Districts for the first time ever.
Mary is an inspiring person with an inspiring life story and you will not want to miss her informative presentation!
Remember you must register in advance to attend a virtual Final Friday program. The link is highlighted in blue below. You may also watch on Facebook Live, or RSVP at 936-703-5841 to watch in person from Montgomery County Headquarters. Now that vaccinations and boosters have made it safer for us to get together in person you are welcome to join us your discretion.
Topic: MCDP Final Friday Speaker Series – The Organizational Structure to the Texas
Democratic Party
Time: Friday, May 27, 2022 , at 6:30 p.m.
Place: 704 N. Thompson St., Suite 195, Conroe, TX 77301
Manner: Zoom, Facebook Live, or In Person.
Register in advance for this meeting:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting via Zoom.
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Editorial Related to Abbott’s Proposed “Parental Bill of Rights”
Public education is under attack across America, and nowhere is it more evident than here in Texas.
Governor Greg Abbott has made central to his reelection platform a promise to create a “Parental Bill of Rights.” He seeks to provide parents with additional protections regarding children in public schools.
Let’s be clear; Texas parents are already provided a wide range of protections under the law, as spelled out in the Texas Education Code. This is a blatant ploy to anger and frustrate right-wing, conservative parents who desire to control public education through suppression of anything they find objectionable, specifically topics related to race, gender, and sex. Allowing his voter base of conservative parents to control curriculum will eliminate factual discussion of racism and its negative impact on American people and institutions. By not allowing the LGBTQ and multi-cultural/multi-racial members of our communities to be represented in curricular materials, we effectively erase their existence and ignore their valuable contributions to society. Sex education, even in high school health classes, will represent sex as legitimate only between married, heterosexual couples. All other family structures will be ignored out of existence.
According to Brandon Rottinghaus, a political science professor at the University of Houston, this ‘bill of rights’ is mostly a repackaging of policies already in place, including current law and recently passed regulations, with a bright bow on the package to make it politically attractive to his voter base.
This “Parental Bill of Rights” must be considered by the Legislature when it reconvenes in 2023. We cannot afford to allow this to happen. We cannot allow the state of Texas to remove all educational freedom from the classroom and punish teachers who understand the importance of celebrating the diversity represented by the students they teach.
Editorial submitted by
Kimberly Valdez
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CHECK OUT OUR NEW SHIRTS AND MERCH!! |
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WE HAVE THE YARD SIGNS!
Beto yard signs are available for a $20 donation and pick up at MCDPTX Headquarters.
Call us to reserve yours today.
936-703-5841
email: mcdpoffice@gmail.com
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Event Calendar - For more details, click on the image and follow link to the MCDPTX.org website; click on the date to view event.
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Other Groups & Community Events: |
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Monday, May 30, 2022 at 11:00 am
YOU ARE INVITED TO HONOR OUR VETERANS
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IMMIGRATION CLINIC REOPENS - VOLUNTEERS NEEDED! - Lorena Perez McGill |
Can you help?
- Legal consultation
- Set up, clean up, organize
- Speaker
Third Thursdays
5:00 to 9:00pm
24803 Oakhurst Dr. 77386
Questions and Information:
contact Lorena Perez McGill at
email or 202-294-4473.
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MON, MAY 16 to 20 – EARLY VOTING: PRIMARY RUNOFF
TUES, MAY 17 – CONROE ISD BOARD MEETING, 6:00pm, 3205 W. Davis St. 77304 and Livestream
Wednesday, May 18
6:30 – 8pm CST
Preregistration Required
Join from anywhere
About this event
Thank you for your continued advocacy and support to our Democratic values. There are many ways — big and small — that you can support your community and our local Democratic Club. Come to the virtual meeting via Zoom on , to be announced.
THU, MAY 19 – WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP BOARD, 6:00pm, 2801 Technology Forest Bl. 77381
Saturday, May 21, 2022
9:30 AM to 11:30 AM CD
3600 N Loop 336 W · Conroe, TX
This is a big election year and we need to be active right now!
Please come for dinner and talk and information on what
you can do.
Hosted by Karen Cavanagh.
TUES, MAY 24 – TEXAS PRIMARY RUNOFF ELECTION
TUES, MAY 24 – MOCO COMMISSIONERS COURT, 9:30am, 501 N. Thompson St. 77301
WED, MAY 25 – WOODLANDS TOWNSHIP BOARD, 6:00pm, 2801 Technology Forest Bl. 77381
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Paid for by the Montgomery County Texas Democratic Party, www.mcdptx.org. This communication is not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. |
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