The impressive turnout at last month’s county-wide caucus is just the latest sign of the enthusiasm among local Democrats as election-year activities gear up. More than 160 people joined us on Saturday morning to sign petitions
for candidates and issues and to choose state convention delegates. They were among 3,500 Democrats who participated in caucuses statewide—an increase of more than 17 percent compared to 2024, a general election year.
This energy reflects Democrats’ momentum across the country. A recent Washington Post poll found a significant enthusiasm gap between Democratic and Republican voters. Among Democrats surveyed, 79 percent said they were certain to vote in November compared to 65 percent of Republicans. That’s the largest advantage in enthusiasm Democrats have shown at this point in a mid-term year since 2006. Worried conservatives, describing it as an historic gap, said Republicans’ “alarms should be ringing.”
Across Hancock County we are tapping into that momentum. Since last fall, leaders of local committees have been meeting to identify ways of collaborating that we hope will compound the impact of our work.
Among the things we’re doing:
- Getting more boots on the ground. Canvassing is proven to be the most effective way of connecting successfully with voters, yet many people find this intimidating. To break through those fears, experienced canvassers will be meeting with local groups to discuss their experiences, answer questions and invite novices to buddy with them to knock on doors.
- Social media. We’re hoping to expand the number of social media sites among our 20 committees to help make sure Democrats in more towns know what their local committees are doing and how to get involved.
- Postcard writing. Regularly scheduled postcard gatherings are expected to produce thousands of handwritten messages this year to help get out the vote and to support candidates, particularly in key races.
- Signs. We will be making signs with strategic messages to remind voters about the ways Democratic policies can improve their lives and about the costs of the Trump-led agenda. Join us!
- Making it easier for you to get involved. A new feature on our website helps connect interested volunteers with their local Democratic committees. Learn how to join your town Democratic committee. If your town isn’t listed, reach out to one close by. They will let you know ways you can help.
We are expecting large turnouts at the upcoming No Kings rallies on March 28. In Ellsworth, demonstrators will gather at the city hall from noon to 1:30. You can find other No Kings rallies planned around the county.
And please join us in person or by Zoom for our monthly meeting—7-8:30 pm March 19 at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Ellsworth, where we will be joined by Governor and U.S. Senate candidate Janet Mills and State Senator Joe Baldacci, congressional candidate for Maine’s 2nd District, who will discuss their campaigns and answer questions.
Onward!
Marcia Myers, HCDC Chair
