MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Hello Democrats and happy Friday!
Now that we’re off to a running start in 2024 it’s a good time to remember just how high the stakes are this November and why we can’t take anything for granted:
- Trumpism is alive and kicking nationwide, with the reprehensible, twice-impeached former president cleaning up in this week’s Iowa caucuses – although it came as no surprise, Donald Trump’s 51% victory in Iowa is a sign of things to come. While it’s still too early to know anything for sure, the MAGA candidate appears likely to secure the GOP presidential nomination which means we need to be ready to fight back with everything we’ve got every single day. I don’t need to tell you how disastrous a second Trump presidency would be for our country and we cannot let it become a reality.
- Polling continues to be very tight in the WA Governor’s race – while Democrat Bob Ferguson continues to lead the pack in early polling, Republican Dave Reichert is inching too close for comfort. It is absolutely critical that we keep a Democrat in the Governor’s office to safeguard the future of Washington State and we must not leave anything up to chance this November. This means working hard now to prime Democrats to vote and ensure our Party turns out in droves later this year.
- Insidious conservative initiatives are back on the ballot this year, following certification of Let’s Go Washington’s signature gathering – the far right chooses to pursue retroactive policy victories through dishonest, anti-democratic initiatives time and time again and this trend is alive and well in 2024. Six initiatives introduced by MAGA Mouthpiece “Let’s Go Washington” appear likely to be on the ballot this year and we cannot allow them to pass and undo progressive legislation we have worked so hard to pass!
There is so much at stake this year – and we can’t afford to waste a single moment. We’re relying on each and every one of you to work hard to build Democratic momentum every single day! Thank you for being a critical partner in the fight for our Democratic values!
Working for Washington
So how do we make sure we’re ready to stand up and fight back against Republicans who want to take away our rights?
We work hard and hit the pavement every single day.
If you haven’t already, I thoroughly encourage you to take the time to demonstrate your commitment to volunteering before the end of January. That way, WA Dems organizers and your local party leaders will know you are on board as a top-level partner next year and we can work together for maximum GOTV success!
You can sign up as a Party volunteer here – and I also highly recommend plugging in with your county and LD Democratic organizations – as they will be the most consistent source of on the ground volunteer opportunities.
Thank you so much for standing with us as a critical member of our Democratic team. We are strongest when we stand together and we’re thrilled to have you on board!
2024 Coordinated Campaign Leadership Hires!
We’re excited to announce that we’ve hired top talent to lead our Coordinated Campaign in 2024! Today, we wanted to introduce you to another one of our terrific staff!
Christopher Cooke – Political Director
Christopher Cooke (he/him) is an impassioned queer Latine political professional and lifelong community activist from Salt Lake City, Utah. In his most recent role as the California Organizing Manager at NARAL Pro-Choice America, Christopher spearheaded efforts to rebuild and establish five member-led chapters and played a pivotal role in the passage of Proposition 1. This constitutional amendment fortified access to abortion and contraception, including the right to refuse contraceptives, within the California State Constitution.
With over a decade of campaign experience, Christopher has honed his skills in the political arena. His contributions to Freedom for All, the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), and the Utah Democratic Party demonstrate a track record of mobilizing voters and supporters for pro-equality candidates in competitive congressional races, including former Rep. Ben McAdams (D-UT-04), Rep. Josh Harder (D-CA-10), and Rep. TJ Cox (D-CA-21).
Christopher now brings his wealth of experience and dedication to the Washington State Coordinated Campaign where his mission is to contribute to the election and expansion of progressive majorities in Washington State. Beyond his professional pursuits, Christopher finds joy in a game of chess, cycling, climbing, and traveling.
Stay tuned for more hiring announcements in the weeks and months to come!
Democrats in the News
U.S. Representatives Kathy Castor (D-FL), Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), Kim Schrier (D-WA), and John Joyce (R-PA) today introduced the Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) Reauthorization Act, a critical piece of legislation that will ensure children receive appropriate health care during a medical emergency.
For Biden, Another Trump Nomination Presents Opportunity, and Great Risk
Some Democrats consider the former president the Republican they would have the best chance against this fall, but also the one they most fear the consequences of losing to.
So many bills, so little time: What to watch in the WA Legislature’s 2024 short session
OLYMPIA — With just days to go before they meet, state lawmakers had filed more than 500 bills
–
Keep in touch, stay engaged, and as always, thank you for all you do!
With gratitude,
Chair Shasti Conrad Washington State Democratic Party
The work we do today wins elections tomorrow. If you’re ready to elect Democrats in every race and every place in Washington state, invest in our efforts and make a contribution now.
Want to support our work year round? Join Blue Washington, our monthly giving program! It is the most effective way to help candidates, volunteers, organizers, activists, and staff because it gives us the certainty we need to scale up our program with confidence. Your monthly investment ensures we can defend our strong legislative majorities, flip key congressional seats from red to blue, and fight for progressive values. Help us lead the way to victories at all levels of government today!
Washington State Democrats PO Box 4027 Seattle, WA 98194 United States
