By Melissa Johnston
Orange Democratic Town Committee
Melissa Johnston
Back to school. Back to reality. As we all try to eke out those last few precious minutes of summer, the leaves will soon start to change, there will be a chill in the air, and before we know it, it’s election season. It’s on our doorstep.
Early voting for the upcoming election begins Oct. 19, giving Orange voters more flexibility when they cast their ballots. This will also be our first general election with no-excuse absentee voting. That means any voter can use an absentee ballot without having to provide a specific reason. Applications for absentee ballots become available starting Sept. 19.
But voting is about more than filling in a ballot. Now is the time to get to know the people who are asking for your vote and will potentially represent you. You might even get a knock on your door.
Candidates spend a tremendous amount of time out in our communities because they want to hear directly from voters. Take advantage of that opportunity. Ask questions. Tell them what matters to you. Find out where they stand on the issues that affect your family, our community and our state.
This year, voters will choose candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of the state, treasurer, comptroller, attorney general, state senator, state representatives, judge of probate, registrar of voters, and US House of Representatives.
Our Democratic state legislator candidates in Orange are asking for your support to continue the critical work they have been doing on issues that impact our everyday lives.
Among their many accomplishments, state Sen. James Maroney has become a leader in helping craft legislation around new technology, including both leveraging its potential and creating important protections.
State Rep. Mary Welander continues to be a strong advocate for children and education.
In his first term, state Rep. MJ Shannon has made his commitment to working families clear, also advocating for affordability and protecting our environment.
State representative candidate Alex Armstrong shares that commitment to protecting our environment while working toward cleaner, more affordable energy and easing the cost of living pressures on our pocketbooks.
Of course, elections aren’t just about candidates. They’re about us. They’re about taking a little time to learn, listen, ask questions and ultimately decide what kind of leadership we want representing us.
The Orange Democrats hosted our annual Meet the Candidates Picnic last month, and it was wonderful to see so many families come out to meet and support our candidates. We have more opportunities like this coming up, including “Electoberfest” at New England Brewing Company in Woodbridge on Oct. 11. Before you cast your ballot, drop by to meet our candidates, ask your questions and connect with others in our community.
We also have a new Orange Democrats headquarters that we’ll be opening regularly as we get closer to Election Day. We’re also excited to participate in the civic tent at the Orange Country Fair. Stop by, say hello, learn more about what we’re doing, and, if you have a few hours to spare, lend a hand. Every little bit helps.
You can find information about upcoming Orange Democratic Town Committee events and ways to get involved at OrangeCTDems.org. We welcome you to be part of the process.
Melissa Johnston is the chair of the Orange Democratic Town Committee.