Benton County Democrats

Standing up for the people of Benton County, WA

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WSDCC Wrap-up May 13, 2022

Posted on May 13, 2022

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

This week, the U.S. Senate had the opportunity to codify abortion rights into federal law by passing the Women’s Health Protection Act, but the legislation failed — for the second time — with all 50 Republicans in opposition. We saw our Democratic leaders, Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, stand up for all of Washington and the nation, while the GOP once again put its party’s extreme agenda before the people. Again, I ask you to turn your anger and outrage into action. We must elect pro-choice candidates at every level, from Congress to the state legislature to city halls to local school boards. This is the only way to ensure Washington remains a champion of reproductive rights, especially as more people come to our state because they were denied access to abortion — a basic health care service — in their own. We can’t go back, and by banding together and electing pro-choice Democrats up and down the ballot in every race and every place, we won’t.

WORKING FOR WASHINGTON

Today was the final day of the Association of State Democratic Committees’ second quarterly meeting of 2022. We welcomed all state and territorial party leaders to Washington state, as well as DNC Chair Jaimie Harrison (shown above), and had the opportunity to spotlight the important work Democrats are doing here. It also served as a chance to ensure all of us are working in tandem at a local and national level to create a better future for all, particularly ahead of the 2022 midterm. 

Next week, the candidate filing period opens, signifying the official start of this election cycle. We know how critical it is to retain all of our Democratic majorities, and it’ll take serious work to do that. This is why we’ve been building up our team, so we can see our candidates across the finish line. You can support our efforts by volunteering (you’ll find several opportunities below), whether it’s volunteer recruitment, knocking doors, or helping mobilize voters. If you’d rather make a contribution, you can donate HERE. 


You can also get involved by becoming a Precinct Committee Official, a role responsible for providing information to voters in your neighborhood and being their main point of contact. PCOs also play an integral role in the state party, and elect party leadership, help fill vacancies in elected office, and lead their precinct caucus for two-year terms. Online candidate filing runs from 9 a.m. on May 16 to 4 p.m. May 20 HERE. Find more information at wa-democrats.org/local/pco.

DEMOCRATS IN THE NEWS

Republicans Block Passage of WHPA in U.S. Senate Week After Roe Leak

For a second time, legislation to codify abortion rights into federal law was blocked by Senate Republicans on a 49-51 vote Wednesday, just a week after the Supreme Court’s draft decision overturning Roe v. Wade was leaked. It would’ve guaranteed providers’ ability to perform an abortion and individuals’ right to access one nationwide.

OPINION: “Governing is hard. Politicking isn’t. Here’s how WA is moving forward, together”
In a recent op-ed, Washington State Speaker of the House Laurie Jinkins writes, “Good policies and smart investments don’t always get the most media coverage, especially with highly polarizing issues providing a distraction. But governing, not politicking, helped Washington weather the pandemic better than most other states. And it will help us recover better, together.”

Find additional news and more on our website and social media!

STAFF CORNER

MEGAN SIMMONS

How long have you worked for the state party, and what is your role here?
I’m the Digital Manager for the Washington State Democrats! I’ve been with the party since February 2022.
Why are you a Democrat?
I’m a Democrat because I believe in a party that centers the needs of the people when making policy decisions. We deserve forward-thinking, science-based, diverse leadership, and that’s what the Democrats embody.
Why do you enjoy this work?
I enjoy working for the party because young people are trusted to lead here! I’m lucky to be surrounded by a staff of smart, energetic people and leaders who want to hear what we have to say about the most pressing issues of our time.

Know of anyone who’d make a great addition to our staff? Tell them to visit wa-democrats.org/jobs to learn more. And stay tuned for additional announcements! 

SAVE THE DATE

Support Secretary of State Steve Hobbs

  • Join local and state Democratic leaders for a hybrid fundraising event 6:30-8:30 p.m. May 17 in Olympia to support Secretary of State Steve Hobbs’ campaign, hosted by state Sen. Sam Hunt. Special guests include Lt. Gov. Denny Heck, Majority leader Sen. Andy Billig, Chair Tina Podlodowski, and many more. If wishing to attend in person, RSVP to info@electhobbs.com for more information. For a virtual link, RSVP to hobbs@wa-democrats.org.

Lunch with Legislators

  • Chair Tina Podlodowski and state Sen. Marco Liias will discuss transportation issues in Washington state during our latest Lunch with Legislators event 11:30 a.m. May 20. Watch live on Facebook. 

Washington State Democratic Convention

  • Join us for our party’s annual convention June 24-25 at the Tacoma Convention Center. More information will be released soon, including the names of our VIP guests!

GET INVOLVED

For the week of May 13-19:

  • Kitsap County Canvass – Bremerton, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 14
  • Pierce County Canvass – Tacoma, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 14
  • King County Canvass – Burien, 1 to 3 p.m. May 15
  • Pierce County Canvass – Puyallup, 1 to 3 p.m. May 15
  • Kitsap County Canvass – Bremerton, 3 to 6 p.m. May 17
  • Kitsap Peninsula Canvas – PCOs, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 18
    • 1485 Olney Ave. SE in Port Orchard
    • 4225 SE Mile Hill Dr. in Port Orchard
  • King County Virtual Phone Bank – 31st LD, 5 to 7 p.m. May 18

Learn what’s happening in your neck of the woods HERE.

From now until November, we have to mobilize every Democratic voter in Washington state — and we need your help to accomplish that. Join our incredible team of volunteers!

TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

The Washington State Democratic Party, together with the DNC Best Practices Institute, are excited to announce the launch of our 2022 Train the Trainer (T3) Webinar Training Program!

T3 is a free six-week, twelve-part webinar course, covering several aspects of grassroots campaigning. This program seeks to expand the skills of progressive activists and volunteers, by ensuring that comprehensive training is free and accessible for Democrats all over the country.

The T3 trainings are held every Tuesday and Thursday from 4-5 p.m. PST May 24 to June 30. The deadline to register is May 22 at 8:59 p.m. PST. Register HERE today!


Keep in touch, stay engaged, and as always, thank you for all you do!

With gratitude,

Chair Tina Podlodowski
Washington State Democratic Party
Donate
Washington State Democrats
PO Box 4027
Seattle, WA 98194
United States

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Benton County WA Democrats

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Benton County WA Democrats

3 days ago

Benton County WA Democrats
Let’s talk about School Boards. ❗Kennewick, Prosser, and Richland pay attention ❗School boards make important decisions about public schools. They hold significant power over children's rights, setting policies that determine curricula, extracurricular programs, student discipline, and how district funds are spent. Kennewick, Prosser, and Richland have some big decisions to make in this election. We’ve outlined some quick points on each candidate to help with your research but remember to read your Voters’ Pamphlet and to research each candidate (some of them have campaign websites that make their goals loud and clear). And don’t forget to VOTE! Even if you don’t have children your vote could help your neighbors, family members, or the kids who sell lemonade down the street every summer. Remember, the policies and decisions made by school boards can have long-lasting effects on your community and its future generations. ... See MoreSee Less

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Benton County WA Democrats is with Indivisible Tri-Cities WA.

4 days ago

Benton County WA Democrats
We see you! We hear you! We stand with you!Thank You for Defending Democracy Tri-Cities!Today was peaceful, loud, and uplifting because of YOU! Let’s keep building a future rooted in justice, inclusion, and community power. We are stronger together. #nokings #defenddemocracy #indivisibletricitieswa #strongertogether ... See MoreSee Less

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Benton County WA Democrats is with Indivisible Tri-Cities WA.

5 days ago

Benton County WA Democrats
There is ONE PROTEST TODAY!🗓️ Happening NOW!📍 Columbia Center Boulevard, Kennewick⏰ 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.Our voices lifted is to respectfully celebrate family, freedom, and community. Please join us at Columbia Center Blvd.(To clear up confusion, there is also a fall carnival for young families and their children at John Dam Plaza) ... See MoreSee Less

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Benton County WA Democrats

6 days ago

Benton County WA Democrats
Richland Voters! If you were unaware, Donald Landsman passed away on August 31, 2025. First and foremost, we’d like to send our deepest condolences to the entire Landsman family and we are keeping them in our thoughts during this difficult time.Regarding the upcoming election, you might be wondering what will happen if Donald Landsman wins the Richland City Council Position 4 seat.Under Washington law, Landsman is on the ballot because he won the primary election (on August 5, 2025) and his campaign is active. If he wins the general election, his seat will remain vacant until the Richland City Council appoints a successor. The position will then appear on the 2026 ballot, allowing voters to elect a candidate to complete the remainder of the four-year term.In short, if you vote for Landsman you are not actually voting for him, you are voting for the Richland City Council to pick a temporary successor. If you aren’t comfortable with that then let’s take a closer look at the other candidate running for the Richland City Council Position 4 seat: John Maier.As a young adult, John Maier is motivated to change Richland city codes to facilitate more affordable housing, to represent Richland’s needs with Ben Franklin Transit for longer service hours and more capacity for school trips, and to motivate others, especially young people, to engage in government. Learn more about him in your Voters’ Pamphlet.Do your research, know your candidates, and VOTE! ... See MoreSee Less

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Benton County WA Democrats

1 week ago

Benton County WA Democrats
Do your research. Speak up. Participate.This city only works if we all show up and VOTE.Local politics matter more now than ever, and your voice is essential. Exercise your First Amendment rights and fight for the future of the place we love.Ballots for the Nov. 4 General Election will be mailed by Friday, Oct. 17th! ... See MoreSee Less

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Party Calendar

October 2025

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat
1
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  • Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    October 2, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    https://zoom.us/j/94107976607?pwd=qZeb9jUuH9e3DwVvukrhqxuwrNTWvv.1

    Join in and ask questions, get updates or just say hi! Zoom link below, let me know if you need the mobile version. These are held every Thursday at 12pm and occasional weekends.

    See more details

•
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4
5
6
7
  • TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    October 7, 2025  3:45 PM - 5:45 PM
    John Dam Plaza, 815 George Washington Way, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    "Protest Tuesday" at John Dam Plaza on GWay in Richland from 3:45pm to 5:45PM. Bring your own sign or flag or one will be provided. Join our stalwarts and protest whatever is bothering you most that day.
    https://www.facebook.com/events/999996418325987/999996484992647/

    See more details

  • Richland City Council

    Richland City Council

    October 7, 2025  7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    Richland City Hall, 505 Swift Blvd, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    See more details

• •
8
9
  • Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    October 9, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    https://zoom.us/j/94107976607?pwd=qZeb9jUuH9e3DwVvukrhqxuwrNTWvv.1

    Join in and ask questions, get updates or just say hi! Zoom link below, let me know if you need the mobile version. These are held every Thursday at 12pm and occasional weekends.

    See more details

  • MiniVan Training: Democrats University

    MiniVan Training: Democrats University

    October 9, 2025  5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
    https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/JAmvKeUER7yEYZtEgU2dBQ#/registration

    Information you provide when registering will be shared with the account owner and host and can be used and shared by them in accordance with their Terms and Privacy Policy.

    See more details

• •
10
  • Tri-City Democrats - Friday, October 10, 6:00 PM

    Tri-City Democrats - Friday, October 10, 6:00 PM

    October 10, 2025  6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    4501 W Lattin Ct, West Richland

    Greetings fellow Democrats!

    This will be our last picnic of the season! We'll have a potluck picnic at the ranch (4501 W Lattin Ct, West Richland) at 6pm on October 10. There will be a firepit and patio heaters if it gets chilly. Many of the candidates that we're supporting will bring their campaign materials for us to prep and take home for distribution. Come gather with like-minded folks and share some fellowship, food and beverages.

    See more details

•
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  • Benton County Executive Board

    Benton County Executive Board

    October 13, 2025  6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    Meeting details will be provided over email from the Benton County Democrats Chair.

    See more details

•
14
  • TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    October 14, 2025  3:45 PM - 5:45 PM
    John Dam Plaza, 815 George Washington Way, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    "Protest Tuesday" at John Dam Plaza on GWay in Richland from 3:45pm to 5:45PM. Bring your own sign or flag or one will be provided. Join our stalwarts and protest whatever is bothering you most that day.
    https://www.facebook.com/events/999996418325987/999996484992647/

    See more details

  • Kennewick City Council Workshop

    Kennewick City Council Workshop

    October 14, 2025  6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

    See more details

• •
15
16
  • Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    October 16, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    https://zoom.us/j/94107976607?pwd=qZeb9jUuH9e3DwVvukrhqxuwrNTWvv.1

    Join in and ask questions, get updates or just say hi! Zoom link below, let me know if you need the mobile version. These are held every Thursday at 12pm and occasional weekends.

    See more details

  • Franklin County Democratic Central Committee (FCDCC) Full Membership Meeting

    Franklin County Democratic Central Committee (FCDCC) Full Membership Meeting

    October 16, 2025  5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    Location: Library, 1320 W Hopkins Street, Pasco Virtual Option (Zoom): https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9144488289?pwd=OENYNWRxR1VtQkVFT1RsMU13RlZLUT09

    Please join us for our October general meeting happening this Thursday the 16th. We will have our usual potluck at 5:30pm and with the meeting starting at 6pm. Our meeting will be both in person at the Pasco MCL Branch Library (1320 W. Hopkins) and on zoom

    See more details

• •
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  • NO KINGS Zillah Washington

    NO KINGS Zillah Washington

    October 18, 2025  10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
    1st Avenue & Vintage Valley Parkway Zillah, WA 98953

    **In Zillah, we don’t put up with would-be kings. Come out and let your neighbors know they aren’t alone.

    Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.

    The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us.

    A core principle behind all No Kings events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events.

    See more details

  • NO KINGS Tri-Cities WA

    NO KINGS Tri-Cities WA

    October 18, 2025  11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    Columbia Center Blvd 1321 N Columbia Center Blvd Kennewick, WA 99336

    Keep your eye out for the perfect costume because this year’s HAIRraisin’ FUNraiser will take place on Saturday, October 25, at 6pm at the Pasco Red Lion Hotel and Conference Center. Costumes are encouraged at this Halloween Bash celebrating the amazing work that B5 does.

    Guests will hear an update from Executive Director Theresa Roosendaal, and hear two stories of B5 students who are thriving here in the Tri-Cities. There will be auctions, games, a costume contest, and an opportunity to win a two-year lease for a 2025 Cadillac CT4 generously donated by McCurley Cadillac! 

    You can purchase tickets at here or contact Larissa at 509-551-1643 or at larissa.knopp@thriveatb5.org.

    See more details

  • NO KINGS Hermiston OR

    NO KINGS Hermiston OR

    October 18, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    Safeway & Old Rite Aid on eith side of the sidewalk by the light. East Highland Avenue & South Highway 395 Hermiston, OR 97838

    In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings.

    Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.

    See more details

  • NO KINGS Pendleton, Oregon

    NO KINGS Pendleton, Oregon

    October 18, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    Location Change to Goad Road Overpass 500 SW Dorion Ave Pendleton, OR 97801

    In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings.

    Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.

    See more details

  • NO KINGS Walla Walla

    NO KINGS Walla Walla

    October 18, 2025  12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
    Walla Walla County Superior 315 W Main St Walla Walla, WA 99362

    In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings.

    Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.

    The president thinks his rule is absolute. But in America, we don’t have kings, and we won’t back down against chaos, corruption, and cruelty. Grow our movement and join us.

    A core principle behind all No Kings events is a commitment to nonviolent action. We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events. Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, should not be brought to events.

    See more details

• • • • •
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20
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  • TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    October 21, 2025  3:45 PM - 5:45 PM
    John Dam Plaza, 815 George Washington Way, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    "Protest Tuesday" at John Dam Plaza on GWay in Richland from 3:45pm to 5:45PM. Bring your own sign or flag or one will be provided. Join our stalwarts and protest whatever is bothering you most that day.
    https://www.facebook.com/events/999996418325987/999996484992647/

    See more details

  • Richland City Council

    Richland City Council

    October 21, 2025  7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    Richland City Hall, 505 Swift Blvd, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    See more details

• •
22
  • BADGER FORUM: Homeless: More Need, Fewer Resources

    BADGER FORUM: Homeless: More Need, Fewer Resources

    October 22, 2025  12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
    https://badgers.clubexpress.com/content.aspx?page_id=722&club_id=392306&emtid=292796115095

    Across Benton and Franklin Counties, the need is growing—but the resources aren’t. Government agencies and nonprofit organizations work tirelessly to provide shelter, food, addiction recovery, and mental health support. Yet even their combined efforts fall short of meeting the full scope of the crisis.

    So, what happens when the system can’t reach everyone? What do we do when the need shows up not in a spreadsheet, but on the corner holding a cardboard sign? We'll consider that question and more at our WEDNESDAY, October 22 Forum.

    See more details

•
23
  • Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    October 23, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    https://zoom.us/j/94107976607?pwd=qZeb9jUuH9e3DwVvukrhqxuwrNTWvv.1

    Join in and ask questions, get updates or just say hi! Zoom link below, let me know if you need the mobile version. These are held every Thursday at 12pm and occasional weekends.

    See more details

  • BCDCC General Public Meeting

    BCDCC General Public Meeting

    October 23, 2025  6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
    Meeting details will be provided over email from the Benton County Democrats Chair.

    See more details

• •
24
25
  • HAIRraisin’ FUNraiser

    HAIRraisin’ FUNraiser

    October 25, 2025  6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
    Red Lion Hotel Pasco Airport & Conference Center 2525 N 20th Ave, Pasco, WA 99301

    Keep your eye out for the perfect costume because this year’s HAIRraisin’ FUNraiser will take place on Saturday, October 25, at 6pm at the Pasco Red Lion Hotel and Conference Center. Costumes are encouraged at this Halloween Bash celebrating the amazing work that B5 does.

    Guests will hear an update from Executive Director Theresa Roosendaal, and hear two stories of B5 students who are thriving here in the Tri-Cities. There will be auctions, games, a costume contest, and an opportunity to win a two-year lease for a 2025 Cadillac CT4 generously donated by McCurley Cadillac! 

    You can purchase tickets at here or contact Larissa at 509-551-1643 or at larissa.knopp@thriveatb5.org.

    See more details

•
26
27
28
  • TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    TCD Democrats Protest Tuesday

    October 28, 2025  3:45 PM - 5:45 PM
    John Dam Plaza, 815 George Washington Way, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    "Protest Tuesday" at John Dam Plaza on GWay in Richland from 3:45pm to 5:45PM. Bring your own sign or flag or one will be provided. Join our stalwarts and protest whatever is bothering you most that day.
    https://www.facebook.com/events/999996418325987/999996484992647/

    See more details

  • Richland City Council Workshop

    Richland City Council Workshop

    October 28, 2025  6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    Richland City Hall, 505 Swift Blvd, Richland, WA 99352, USA

    See more details

• •
29
30
  • Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    Indivisible TC - Founder Hour, Thurs

    October 30, 2025  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    https://zoom.us/j/94107976607?pwd=qZeb9jUuH9e3DwVvukrhqxuwrNTWvv.1

    Join in and ask questions, get updates or just say hi! Zoom link below, let me know if you need the mobile version. These are held every Thursday at 12pm and occasional weekends.

    See more details

•
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