Stay Engaged and Keep Fighting!

The 2024 election has left many Democrats feeling disheartened. While it's tempting to disengage, now is the time for renewed commitment to our democratic principles. Like many of you, I feel disheartened, and it is tempting to hide in the blissful ignorance of focusing on my daily life while being closed-off to what is going on in the world around me. For my own mental health, at times it’s essential that I focus on what’s right in front of me and count my blessings. Drawing inspiration from an unlikely source–the Super Bowl–we can find parallels to guide our path forward.

The Super Bowl, America's most-watched annual event, serves as a powerful metaphor for our nation's unity and resilience. The game's patriotic pageantry, from elaborate national anthems to field-sized flags, reminds us of the shared values that bind us as a nation. Millions gather to watch two teams compete, temporarily becoming "enemies" for the duration of the game. Yet, at the conclusion, fans leave together, returning to their everyday lives. This showcases how diverse individuals can unite for a common goal, despite their differences.

Like football players who face setbacks but continue to push forward toward the ultimate prize of winning a championship, Democrats must persist in our civic engagement. Our democracy thrives on informed citizens who actively participate in the political process. By staying informed, we equip ourselves with the knowledge needed to make sound decisions and hold our leaders accountable.

In football, as in politics, success requires a team effort. No single player can win the game alone. Similarly, as Democrats, we must work together, focusing on the future rather than dwelling on past setbacks. Each of us has a crucial role in maintaining the checks and balances that keep our democracy strong.

Just as football players face setbacks but continue pushing toward their ultimate goal, we must persist in our civic engagement. Our democracy thrives on informed citizens who actively participate in the political process. By staying informed, we equip ourselves with the knowledge needed to make sound decisions and hold our leaders accountable. What happened in the past is not as important as what will happen next. It takes a team effort, with each person playing their part.

Let's take a cue from the resilience and determination displayed on the football field. Just as teams regroup and strategize after a tough loss, we too must regroup and refocus our efforts. That is why the county, state, and national levels of the Democratic Party reorganize every two years, and, in Coffee County, that will come on April 12th. Our commitment to staying informed and engaged is what will drive progress and positive change in our community.

The current political landscape presents significant challenges. Let's channel the spirit of teamwork and perseverance exemplified by the Super Bowl. Republicans, led by plutocrats President Trump and Elon Musk, are moving the ball so far down the field that the next Democratic president won’t be working on healthcare, improving our incomes, or reestablishing this country’s standing on the world stage; he or she will be working full time for four years to rebuild our federal government back from the ashes. By remaining engaged, we contribute to the ongoing dialogue that shapes our nation's future and works towards preserving the American Dream for all. We all deserve life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, not a country that is not run by billionaires who are stuffing their own pockets with our tax dollars from federal programs that they never paid into. 

Mike Stein

Chair, Coffee Co. Democratic Party