The Democratic National Convention and Florida primary are quickly approaching. Following the passage of SB 524 (2022) and SB 7050 (2023), there has been a dramatic rise in the number of inactive voters in the state. We are maintaining a sharp focus on voter registration and encouraging participation in vote-by-mail heading into August.
In a win against voter suppression laws, a federal court has permanently blocked a provision of Florida law S.B. 7050 that undermines community-based organizations performing voter registration and civic engagement. The law’s noncitizen provision imposed a $50,000 fine on an organization for each noncitizen person who “collects” or “handles” voter registration forms on its behalf. The restrictions included lawful permanent residents, many of whom have long-time, close ties to the communities in which they reside.
Last weekend, our Precinct Captains gathered to discuss our county wide plan to ensure Indian River County Democrats are registered to vote, active voters, have requested mail-in-ballots and have all of the information they need to be informed voters. Be on the lookout for virtual and in person opportunities to engage with these efforts soon!
We urge all voters to check their voter status HERE.
President Biden's investing in America agenda is delivering in Florida. Our state has seen $9.5 billion in private sector commitments and $17 billion in public investments in clean energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing under President Biden.
The Taxpayers Association of Indian River County will be hosting a debate among the candidates for Sheriff of Indian River County. This will likely be very well attended, and as such this debate will be held as a Special Event at the Indian River County Charter High School Auditorium on June 17th from 5:30-7PM. There will be no registration or cost needed to attend the Sheriff Debate. Find event details HERE.
Virtual Events
38 states and counting have voter ID laws in place this year, and more Americans than ever before now live in a state with a voter ID law. While these restrictive and confusing laws put millions of votes at risk, there are also available resources and free help services to ensure every eligible voter can cast a ballot that counts.
Please join VoteRiders, the nation's leading organization focused on the increasingly crucial issue of voter ID, for a webinar to learn how to fight back and what we can do to ensure no voter stays home this November despite the rising tide of ID laws.
Join Yes on 4 for their weekly virtual phone bank session where you will connect to voters via phone call to invite them to take action and support Yes on 4 this election cycle. No experience is necessary, they will provide training and support to you while you make calls. Help grow the movement to limit government interference with abortion! RSVP at https://mobilize.us/s/UVk185
Acts of political violence have surged in recent years. Officeholders serving in local and state government across the country, as well as those serving in other essential capacities such as poll workers, have faced a barrage of intimidating abuse and threats. As administration of the 2024 elections ramps up, officials are considering what steps can be taken to mitigate or de-escalate these threats.
During this webinar, researchers from the University of California, Davis and the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace will discuss new research that examines the public’s attitudes toward political violence, and how gun owners in particular view this topic. Panelists will also discuss the implications of this new research on the upcoming election.
What is a Poll Watcher? A poll watcher is an individual designated by a candidate, political party, or political committee to watch and observe the conduct of elections. We are searching for individuals to spearhead our poll watching team.
To learn more about leading this team, please contact the Democrats of Indian River office at 772-226-5267.
Florida Democrats have filed and qualified to contest all 28 Congressional Districts in 2024 marking the first time Florida Democrats have filled a full slate of congressional candidates since 2018. No Republican is running unopposed!
It’s not too late to take a stand and run for an office. Every part of this state is worth fighting for and we do not want to let Florida Republicans walk into office without being held accountable. If you or someone you know is interested in running for office, please fill out the Run for Office form at https://www.floridadems.org/run-for-office/. You can send any questions about running for office to the Director of Candidates and Campaigns at [email protected].
State Senate SD-29 – Deadline to Qualify is Friday, June 14
State House HD-34 – Deadline to Qualify is Friday, June 14
More Opportunities to Get Involved
Passionate about politics and skilled in crafting engaging social media content to drive online engagement? If so, we want you to join our team! As we gear up for the 2024 election year, we're on the lookout for a talented and dedicated Social Media Intern to help us spread our message, engage with voters, and amplify our impact online. This is a part-time, paid internship opportunity. To apply for the Social Media Intern position, please send your resume to [email protected].
SAVE THE DATE
DWC Luncheon at Bent Pine Clubhouse Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. 6001 Clubhouse Drive, Vero Beach, FL 32967
Speaker will be Dr. Peggy Jones, Candidate for School Board Re-Election District 3
Introducing: Mr. Dave Dyer, Candidate for School Board, District 5
Mr. Dan McDow, Candidate for Congress, District 8
Ms. Debra Shellenberger, Candidate for Hospital District, Seat 7
Ms. Brenda Bradley, Candidate for Tax Collector
Non member guests are invited to attend. The cost is $35, payable at the door by cash or check. Please RSVP by Wednesday June 5 to [email protected] and include your meal choice: Grilled Chicken with Mixed Green & Tomato Salad & Burrada Cheese, Pan Fried Cod Cakes, Cole Slaw & Kettle Chips, or Vegetarian Plate.
Valet Parking will be limited to arrival from 11:15 until noon & departure from 1:30 to 2:15.
DWC Book Group Meeting Friday May 24, 2024 2-4 p.m. Bjorkman Room at Brackett Library on IRSC Mueller Campus
We will discuss - “Poverty, By America”
By: Mathew Desmond
Questions? Email [email protected]
GOVERNMENT MEETINGS
Monday, June 10, 2024 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. School District of Indian River County School Board Business Meeting. Details here.
Tuesday, June 4, 2024 9 a.m.
Indian River County Board of County Commission Meeting. Details here.
Tuesday, May 28, 2024 9:30 a.m. City of Vero Beach Regular City Council Meeting. Details here.
Thursday, June 27, 2024 Town of Indian River Shores Regular Town Council Meeting. Details here.
Thursday, June 6, 2024 City of Fellsmere Regular City Council Meeting details here.
Wednesday June 12, 2024 City of Sebastian Regular City Council Meeting at City Hall. Details here.
Thursday, September 16, 2024 Town of Orchid Regular Town Council Meeting. Details here.
