Message to the Scott County Democrats
Message to the Scott County Democrats
As time goes on, I genuinely want to see you succeed, not only in turning this county blue, but eventually the entire state. I hope I can offer some insight into how that can happen. Yes, in a free and fair election you are projected to win many races, but the goal isn’t just winning during this moment in the Trump era. The goal is maintaining victory and building durable support for the long term.
What follows comes directly from conversations I’ve had with voters while canvassing and organizing.
First, you must address Monsanto and corporate agriculture. This is a major issue for farmers. People want to see support for local farms, better systems for hog containment, and policies that prioritize community‑scale agriculture over large corporate operations.
Second, water scarcity is becoming a real concern. Rural communities want investment in infrastructure, dams, reservoirs, and man‑made lakes to ensure irrigation backups and long‑term water security.
Third, local economic investment matters. Voters want to see policies that strengthen small businesses, increase local economic velocity, and keep money circulating in the hands of working people rather than leaving the community.
Fourth, family‑centered messaging resonates, especially with middle‑class women. Language around safety, stability, and protecting families is consistently effective.
For LGBTQIA+ voters, the strongest messaging focuses on housing protections, anti‑discrimination in the workplace, access to healthcare, and the right to self‑expression. Issues like trans women in sports are not priorities for most LGBTQIA+ people; many see them as talking points manufactured by the right to distract and confuse. Center the message on dignity, identity, and equal protection under the law.
When it comes to Latino voters, understand that they are not a single voting bloc. As a Chicana myself, I can tell you the current messaging often misses the mark. Focus on pro‑family, pro‑community values, better worker protections, expanded union rights, and making it easier for independent contractors and small tradespeople to operate without unnecessary corporate‑driven red tape. Many regulations that exist today protect large corporations, not working‑class people. Addressing this directly will earn real loyalty.
You also need to engage the far left, not ignore them. You don’t have to adopt every policy they want, but you must recognize that they represent a significant and growing demographic. Policies like universal healthcare, childcare, free college, anti‑war positions, and support for the unhoused have broad appeal across the political spectrum. Re‑engaging disillusioned left‑leaning voters is essential for long‑term power, grassroots donations, and sustainable funding.
I understand the challenge you face: balancing popular messaging with the interests of those who currently fund campaigns. But that’s exactly why rebuilding the economy from the bottom up matters. When working‑class and middle‑class households regain economic power, union funds grow, small‑donor fundraising expands, and you become
