"We, all of us, are called to advance the promise of freedom, including the freedom of every woman to make decisions about her own body, not the government telling her what to do.”
Vice-President Kamala Harris addresses gathering in Charlotte on Saturday
Our Own Herb Harton Opened NCDP Labor Caucus Convention
Herb Harton, long-time stalwart of the New Hanover County Democratic Party, called the Annual Convention of the North Carolina Democratic Party Labor Caucus to order on June 17. Harton, known for decades for his advocacy for working people, stepped down as president of the state caucus at the convention, but remains a member of its executive committee. Along with Herb, Tony Barney, NHCDP Labor Caucus President, and Marlene Barney, NHCDP Labor Caucus Communications Director, represented our New Hanover County Party.
NCDP Chair Anderson Clayton and NCDP 3rd Vice Chair Elijah King both addressed the convention with inspiring and supportive messages. The convention featured an informative panel discussion with NC Democratic Senators Lisa Grafstein (SD13, Wake) and Natalie Murdock (SD20, Chatham, Durham), NC Rep. John Autry (CD100, Mecklenburg), and Kevin Lambert, NC AFL-CIO Political Director. The panel discussion focused on SB 543 and HB 504 (removing barriers to labor organizing) and how we, as pro-worker, pro-union Democrats, can raise awareness and engage workers and voters on labor issues such as better wages, healthcare, education, affordable housing, affordable childcare, and racial equity - issues supported by labor unions working towards a healthy and prosperous middle class.
If you are interested in getting involved with the state NCDP Labor Caucus and/or our county NHCDP Labor Caucus, you don't have to be a member or former member of a union to join, as long as you're a registered Democrat and support workers' rights and labor unions. For more information and to join the NCDP Labor Caucus, go to: https://ncdplaborcaucus.org/.
V.P. Harris Visits Charlotte on Anniversary of Roe v Wade Decision
(From NBC News) In a speech marking the anniversary of the Supreme Court's reversal of Roe v Wade, Vice President Kamala Harris on Saturday condemned the conservative justices for creating a "health care crisis in America."
“How dare they,” Harris, the first female vice president, said to a crowd gathered in Charlotte, North Carolina.
She also criticized abortion bans that have been passed in several Republican-led states since the reversal of Roe. The politicians creating these laws “don’t even understand how a woman’s body actually works," Harris said, as she vowed that the Biden administration will continue to fight for a woman's right to make their own choices.
“This fight is not only about people in one particular state, these extremists plan to take their agenda national. And that agenda, by the way, goes way beyond reproductive rights. A lot of these same folks attack the right to vote, that prevents the teaching of America’s history.” she said.
From NHCDP Chair Jill Hopman: Amazing day with Vice President Kamala Harris in Charlotte, along with Governor Roy Cooper, AG Josh Stein, Rep. Jeff Jackson, Rep. Alma Adams for Congress, and HHS Sec. Xavier Becerra, amongst others.
DOING: Republicans Hatching Plans To Slash Social Security, Privatize Medicare, and Fund Tax Cuts for the Wealthy
The Republican Study Committee, 175 MAGA Republicans from the U.S. Congress, recently offered up a plan to slash domestic spending, make the Trump tax cuts permanent, and balance the federal budget in seven years. How will they do it? Remember when President Biden said that Republicans intended to gut Social Security and Medicare and they yelled that “he lied”? Actually, that’s exactly what this plan proposes. They intend to raise the retirement age for Social Security to 69 years of age, but do it gradually so it’s more politically palatable. They’re also repurposing an old idea – privatizing Medicare - but they’re calling it “premium support”.
Though House Republicans have yet to produce a fiscal 2024 budget, this Republican plan calls for making the Trump tax cuts permanent at a cost to the government of some $2.48 trillion dollars, with tax cuts going mostly to high earners and large corporations. The calculus is clear – cut government spending on Social Security and Medicare, which benefit the many, to give tax cuts to big business and big earners. It also calls for severe cuts to Biden’s plans to combat climate change, to his poverty-reduction proposals, and to funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (NPR).
Congressman David Rouzer, representative from our local NC 7th District, is a member in good standing of the Republican Study Committee. Recall he is also an election denier, having voted against certifying the Biden win in the 2020 presidential election, and repeating the ‘great lie’ that Trump’s victory was stolen from him.
Watch this space to be directed to deeper discussions of these political issues in the coming weeks.
State Party Holds Executive Meeting and Unity Dinner
Thank you to our State Executive Committee members from New Hanover County who attended the SEC Summer Meeting in-person and via Zoom.
From Siara Divel, NHC Democrat and Eastern Regional Vice President of the Young Democrats of NC:
At the State Executive Committee's Summer Meeting, the following were passed or recommended by the SEC as they relate to the NC Democratic Party and the NCDP Plan of Organization (PoO):
The 2024 Delegation Selection Plan, to be submitted now to the DNC.
Amendments to the PoO that specifically allow for the flexibility of zoom, since this had not been formally addressed before.
Alternative PoO amendments for Wake and Mecklenburg counties respectively.
The SEC passed the Platform and Resolution Committee Report in it’s entirety which is to be published on the NCDP website.
The Auxiliary Organization Committee made the following recommendations to the SEC which passed:
To request official standing of 15 auxiliaries/caucuses: AAPI, Interfaith, DWNC, Progressive Dems, AAC, Transgender, Labor, Hispanic, YDNC, CDNC, NCATD, LGBTQ+, Veterans, Senior Dems, and Disability.
To place the Coastal, Rural, Native American, and Jewish Caucuses under conditional review (the committee will publish what those conditions are).
To move for Small Business to no longer be a caucus, and for the Environmental Caucus be moved to a committee under the Chair’s discretion.
The Unity Dinner was sold out and the prevailing emphasis throughout the speakers was on the untapped young voters that are important to turning the state blue. NCDP 2nd Vice Chair, Dr. Kimberly Hardy, announced that 2 awards will be giving out at the February SEC that will honor Conan Morgan’s work in the party and his memory. There was enthusiasm in working to turn the state blue in 2023 and 2024 by addressing every need across the state.
The Democrats After Dark event had over 100 attendees and raised over $2000 for YDNC. Here are a few pictures from NHC Democrats in attendance:
Calling All Precincts and Auxiliaries!
Does your precinct or auxiliary group have something special going on? Perhaps a picnic, social, meeting, or other public gathering?
We'd love to post about it in the next newsletter!
Please use the "Comments and Suggestions" link below to let the Email Blast know about your event in advance or to share pictures after the event.
Pictured: Attendees at the Downtown W's Precinct Meet and Greet.
Events Calendar
DOING Reps Meeting -- June 29
When: Thursday, June 29 at 7:00pm
Where: Zoom
D.O.I.N.G.'s monthly meeting will be held this Thursday, June 29 at 7:00pm via ZOOM. Joanne Durham will send the link along with the agenda to all DOING reps later in the week. If you have questions or items to add to the agenda, please let her know: doingnhc@gmail.com.
New Hanover County Democratic Party Wilmington Council Straw Poll -- July 17
When: Monday, July 17
Where: TBA
At our July meeting, the NHCDP will hold a straw poll to vote on our top three candidates for Wilmington City Council. All CEC members, as well as any county-convention delegate from Wilmington municipal-voting precincts, will be eligible to vote. Since we are a county party, not a city one, and all our volunteers will be asked to work for these candidates regardless of where they live, every precinct should be represented; however, we also recognize that Wilmington municipal voters should have more influence in this poll. While this will not be a formally weighted vote, it will give the municipal precincts an opportunity to have all their
county-convention delegates participate and thus have a greater impact on the poll results.
(From Associated Press) North Carolina Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper vetoed GOP legislation on Friday that would ban the promotion of certain beliefs that some lawmakers have likened to critical race theory in state government workplaces.
Cooper denounced the bill Friday as an attempt to suppress productive workplace discussions related to diversity, equity and inclusion. He criticized the Republican caucus for “pretending that bias and racism don’t exist” when two of their members recently lost leadership positions over comments directed at Black colleagues.
The move sets up a likely veto override showdown with the General Assembly’s Republican supermajority, which initially passed the measure by veto-proof margins in both chambers. While Cooper has used his bully pulpit to rally voters against the most controversial GOP bills passed this session, he has been unable to successfully block any this year.
If the bill is overridden, starting Dec. 1, anyone entering a state government workplace, such as a private contractor or a diversity trainer, would be prohibited by the bill from compelling employees to believe they should feel guilty or responsible for past actions committed by people of the same race or sex.
(From the News & Observer) Two Republican members of the North Carolina House have resigned from leadership positions within their caucus. Both Reps. Jeff McNeely of Stony Point and Keith Kidwell of Chocowinity held deputy whip positions in the House Republican Caucus, and both made controversial comments last week.
During a House floor debate over private school scholarships, McNeely, who is white, asked Rep. Abe Jones, who is Black, if he got into Harvard because he was a minority or an athlete. Jones responded to the racist line of questioning with his academic record, and accepted McNeely’s apology.
Kidwell was heard by a WRAL reporter — and by teenagers who serve as pages in the legislature — making a joke about the “church of Satan” while Democratic Rep. Diamond Staton-Williams, who is Black, was giving a speech about her faith during the abortion debate.
In last week's email blast, we shared notice of an in-person candidate forum being held today, Monday, June 19 at 7:00pm at the NHC Schools Board of Education Center on 1806 S. 13th Street, Wilmington. This forum is one step in our *new* four step Wilmington Municipal Election Process. The complete list of steps are as follows:
Candidate Questionnaire (June 7-14)
Candidate Forum (June 19)
North Carolina Democratic Party (NCDP) Mediator (June 20-July 7)
New Hanover County Democratic Party Straw Poll (July 17)
To learn more about the entirety of the process, how it was developed and why, and how you are being asked to participate, please click the link titled “Municipal Election Memo”.
Any comments or questions can be directed to NHCDP Chair Jill Hopman: hopman21@gmail.com.
In advance of today’s forum, please take a moment to:
Read the aforementioned “Municipal Election Memo”,
Review the Candidate Questionnaires as completed and submitted by each of the four candidates who have currently identified themselves as candidates for Wilmington City Council, and
DOING: N.C. Republicans Are Strangling Political Dissent
North Carolina lost many freedoms after the 2022 elections. The new Republican majority on the state supreme court reversed legal findings that helped ensure one person – one vote voting rules. The dreaded ‘gerrymander’ is once again legal here, according to this new court, and the next election may well give Republicans a skewed supermajority in the state legislature - despite the purple composition (50% Democratic) of the voters.
Republicans in the General Assembly have also moved to decrease voter turnout. In the name of ‘voter integrity’, they’ve passed a bolus of bills which decrease your time to exercise your franchise, subject the signature on your mail-in ballot to machine validation, throw out your ballot if it arrives one day late, make it easier to accuse you of voter fraud, and other restrictions. They claim all this is needed to prevent fraudulent voting, but no such invalid votes – except from Republicans – have ever been documented.
The MAGA supermajority in the General Assembly has also moved legislation to seize control of important governing boards, such as the Board of Elections (which has the power to certify the results of each election), county boards of election, the Board of Education, the Utilities Commission (which is expected to review large rate increase requests from Duke Energy), and UNC System’s Board of Governors. Republicans in Raleigh are lazar-focused on extending their political control into every state and local governmental institution.
Watch this space to be directed to deeper discussions of these political issues in the coming weeks.
NHC Board of Elections Announces TWO New Precincts
This map has NOT yet been updated by the BOE to reflect the changes.
On June 2, the Board of Elections quietly announced that changes to four precincts were being made effective immediately:
Precincts W13 and W24 have been consolidated to Precinct W34. The polling place for W34 is UNCW's Warwick Center.
Precincts W28 and W32 have been consolidated to Precinct W35. The polling place for W35 is Wesley Memorial UMC's Activity Building.
Information on the organization of Precinct W34 is forth-coming.
An organizational meeting for the newly formed Precinct W35 is set to take place this Saturday, June 24 at 3:00 p.m. at Flying Machine Brewery. See additional details in the "Events Calendar" below.
Does your precinct or auxiliary group have something special going on? Perhaps a picnic, social, meeting, or other public gathering?
We'd love to post about it in the next newsletter!
Please use the "Comments and Suggestions" link below to let the Email Blast know about your event in advance or to share pictures after the event.
Pictured: Attendees at the 2023 NCDP Labor Caucus Convention in Pittsboro; Left to Right: Marlene B., NCDP Chair Anderson Clayton, and former NCDP Labor Caucus Chair Herb Harton.
Events Calendar
Wilmington City Council Candidate Forum – June 19
When: Monday, June 19, 7:00 to 8:30 pm
Where: NHC Schools Board of Education Center, 1805 S. 13th Street, Wilmington
This in-person forum will replace the monthly Democratic Party meeting [aka the County Executive Committee (CEC) meeting]. The forum will be moderated by WHQR’s Ben Schachtman and all municipal candidates will appear in person, including incumbent Kevin Spears, Salette Andrews, David Joyner, and Marlowe Weldon Foster.
After brief introductions by each candidate, there will be a series of questions to all candidates, followed by audience questions as submitted in advance. Please submit your questions by 3:00pm TODAY using this form: https://forms.gle/DxifgjzwPy4CRs8N8
To read more about this forum and how it fits into the New Hanover County Democratic Party's Municipal Election Process, scroll up to the earlier section of this email blast titled "NHCDP Wilmington Municipal Election Process".
Please note: We fully support Juneteenth and understand that the date of the forum is not ideal, but it is the only opening where all four candidates and Mr. Schachtman can appear in person, along with the venue being available. It will also occur after all local Juneteenth events have already taken place. We hope to see you this evening!
New Hanover County Democratic Women Advocacy Event – June 21
When: Wednesday, June 21, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Bull City Ciderworks, 615 S. 17th St, Wilmington
The NHC Dem Women are hosting an advocacy event to discuss the new election law that is going through the North Carolina General Assembly.
Precinct W25 is hosting a meet & greet for the Downtown Democratic Precincts (W03, W08, W15, W25, W27, and W29). Come see old friends, make new ones, play some games and eat some of the best pizza in Wilmington!
Located in Wilmington’s up-and-coming “Soda Pop District,” the bright, fun, and game-heavy 7920 sq. ft. taproom originally served as a car dealership and most recently was home to Carolina Carburetor Specialists since 1983.
Pet-Friendly, Family Friendly, Games and Food @ Cugino Forno (outside food is also Welcome)
Northern H Precincts Social & Picnic – June 23
When: Friday, June 23rd, 5:00 to 7:00 pm
Where: Ogden Park, Shelter #1, 615 Ogden Park Dr, Wilmington
H13, H12, H11 & H08 precincts are hosting a summer social & picnic on Friday, June 23rd from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Ogden Park, Shelter #1. Stop by for some fun, food, music, and relaxation with your fellow Dem neighbors! Sunset Slushies & several of our Democrat representatives will also be there. All are welcome!! We hope to see YOU at the picnic!!
For questions, please contact Rosemary Schmitt at 910-431-8445 or swinrose@aol.com
North Carolina Democratic Party Summer SEC Meeting and More – Saturday, June 24 – A full day of activities in Raleigh for Democrats!
10:00 a.m. - 2023 SUMMER STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (SEC) MEETING - ALL DEMOCRATS WELCOME! SEC Members are REQUIRED to attend! - To learn more and to pre-register to join in person or virtually, click: 2023 Summer SEC Meeting
7:00 p.m. (5:30 p.m. VIP) - NCDP UNITY DINNER - To learn more and to purchase tickets, click: 2023 NCDP Unity Dinner
9:00 p.m. - YOUNG DEMS AFTER DARK - To learn more and to purchase tickets, click: Dems After Dark
*W35* Precinct (formerly W28 and W32) Organizing Meeting– June 24
On June 2, the Board of Elections announced that precincts W28 and W32 would combine to make one, new precinct, assigning it the name W35. A meeting to organize this new precinct is being held on June 24. Organizers would like to have representation from the diverse neighborhoods of this new precinct, and hope Democratic residents will attend. If you are unsure of your precinct, check here: https://vt.ncsbe.gov/RegLkup/ and look under "Your Jurisdictions".
Please email nhdemsw32@gmail.com to let organizers know that you can attend the meeting or if you have any questions!
Federal Point Precincts Joint Meeting– June 25
When: Sunday, June 25, 3:00 p.m.
Where: Good Hops Brewing, 811 Harper Ave, Carolina Beach
Federal Point Precincts are meeting to outline plans for education and GOTV activities. Come enjoy the fellowship.
New Hanover County Democratic Party 5041 New Centre Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 United States
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June 12, 2023
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Weekly News, Updates, and Events
"We have one set of laws in this country, and they apply to everyone. Applying those laws. Collecting facts. That’s what determines the outcome of an investigation. Nothing more. Nothing less.”
One day after the release of a 49-page federal indictment recounting how Donald Trump stole dozens of boxes of government documents including top secret files on nuclear weapons, defense readiness, military attack and retaliation plans, the ex-president told cheering GOP convention audiences in North Carolina and Georgia that he was basically a martyr suffering abuse to protect his followers.
"In the end, they're not coming after me, they're coming after you and I'm just standing in the way," he said.
The first former American President ever to be hit with a federal indictment said charges against him were "baseless" despite an indictment crammed with details of how he held onto records for more than a year after the government demanded that he return them. The indictment also said he showed off top secret records to office visitors on at least two occasions.
Earlier in the day at the North Carolina convention, a Mike Pence statement that “Anyone who puts themselves over the Constitution should never be president of the United States,” was met with silence from the pro-Trump crowd.
Twice-indicted Trump remains the heavy favorite to win the Republican Presidential nomination in 2024. Is it possible that Trump was right when he said in 2016, "I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody, and I wouldn't lose any voters, OK?"
Senator Thom Tillis censured for veering from MAGA line
Republican delegates in North Carolina voted Saturday at their annual convention to censure Thom Tillis, the state’s senior U.S. senator, for backing LGBTQ+ rights, immigration and gun violence policies, according to the Associated Press.
As Sen. Tillis, a Republican, has gained influence in Congress for his willingness to work across the aisle, his record of supporting some key policies has raised concerns among some state Republicans that the senator has strayed from conservative values.
Tillis also recently voted for the compromise debt ceiling legislation designed to keep the United States and the rest of the world from going over a financial cliff.
Republican Senator Ted Budd, a creature of the right-wing extremist “Freedom Coalition,” was one of 31 GOP senators to vote against the deal Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy had worked out with the Biden administration.
A Wilmington Municipal Candidate Forum will replace the June CEC meeting at the Board of Education Center from 7:00-8:30 p.m., June 19. Moderated by WHQR’s Ben Schachtman, all municipal candidates will appear in person, including incumbent Kevin Spears, Salette Andrews, David Joyner, and Marlowe Weldon Foster. After brief intros, there will be a series of questions to all candidates, followed by audience questions.
Please note: we fully support Juneteenth and understand this date is not ideal, but it is the only opening where all candidates and Mr. Schachtman can appear in person, along with the venue being available. It will also occur after all local Juneteenth events have already taken place. We really hope to see you there.
Thirty months into Joe Biden’s presidency, the United States’ economy is thriving. It has shattered economic records for GDP growth, job creation, recovery from COVID, unemployment, reduction in poverty, and onshore manufacturing start-ups. Inflation has declined from 7% to 4.9%. The U.S. deficit has decreased by $1.4 trillion. All these economic indicators indicate that America under President Biden is a strong functional democracy.
By contrast, under Republican rule, North Carolina’s economy tracks the economy at large but trails behind that of some neighboring states like South Carolina, Georgia, and Virginia. Economic growth in North Carolina is concentrated in a few large metropolitan areas while large portions of the state are experiencing economic hardship. Republicans in North Carolina have created hostile conditions for working people, as measured by minimum wage, unemployment compensation, and paid leave provisions of state law.
Republican policies have hurt rural areas, children, and low-income North Carolinians, while producing only average economic growth.
Calling All Precincts and Auxiliaries!
Does your precinct or auxiliary group have something special going on? Perhaps a picnic, social, meeting, or other public gathering?
We'd love to post about it in the next newsletter!
Please use the "Comments and Suggestions" link below to let the Email Blast know about your event in advance or to share pictures after the event.
Pictured: NHCDP Delegates at the Congressional District Convention on May 20, 2023.
Events Calendar
2023 NCDP Labor Caucus Convention -- June 17
When: Saturday, June 17, 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Where: Chatham County Agriculture and Conference Center, 1192 US-64 Bus, Pittsboro, NC
Join the NCDP Labor Caucus for their annual convention. This year's convention shall include a keynote panel to discuss HB 504/S543 Remove Barriers to Labor Organizing as well as a lively and informative discussion of the challenges and dynamics of eliminating Right to Work in North Carolina moderated by the Hon Randy Voller Labor Caucus Vice Chair.
Voyage Wilmington to Host 3rd Annual Juneteenth Community Day -- June 17
When: Saturday, June 17, 12:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Portia Hines Park, 200 N 10th Street, Wilmington
Come and celebrate the Juneteenth holiday, a day to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States.
The NHC Democratic Party will have a table to talk with and register voters. We would love to see every good Dem at this event!
Precinct W28 Cookout Potluck -- June 17
When: Saturday, June 17, 2:00-5:00 p.m.
Where: Empie Park, 3405 Park Avenue, Wilmington
Precinct W28 is hosting a picnic with live music, potluck food, and speakers including Deb Butler, Clayton Hamerski, Dorian Cromartie, and Abby Lorenzo from Walk Wilmington. All are welcome!
Wilmington City Council Candidate Forum – June 19
When: Monday, June 19, 7:00 to 8:30 pm
Where: NHC Schools Board of Education Center, 1805 S. 13th Street, Wilmington
This candidate forum will replace our monthly NHC Democratic Party meeting, also known as our County Executive Committee (CEC) meeting. This is an in-person event that will be filmed for viewing later by persons unable to attend.
Where: Ogden Park, Shelter #1, 615 Ogden Park Dr, Wilmington
H13, H12, H11 & H08 precincts are hosting a summer social & picnic on Friday, June 23rd from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Ogden Park, Shelter #1. Stop by for some fun, food, music, and relaxation with your fellow Dem neighbors! Sunset Slushies & several of our Democrat representatives will also be there. All are welcome!! We hope to see YOU at the picnic!!
New Hanover County Democratic Party 5041 New Centre Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 United States
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June 5, 2023
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Weekly News, Updates, and Events
“Those who are trying to unravel the foundations of our republic, who are threatening the rule of law and the sanctity of our elections, know that they can’t succeed if you vote. So class of 2023, get out and vote.”
MAGA Senator Ted Budd votes against debt-ceiling compromise
The Republican Senator Ted Budd, a creature of the right-wing extremist “Freedom Coalition,” was one of 31 GOP senators to vote against the deal Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy had worked out with the Biden administration. Only 17 Republican senators voted for the compromise bill, which passed with overwhelming Democratic support. Four Democratic senators, plus Bernie Sanders (Independent-Vermont) voted “no,” objecting to the deal’s expansion of work requirements for Medicaid and SNAP nutrition aid, which were among McCarthy’s top conditions for the deal. By authorizing borrowing to cover appropriations Congress had already approved, the bill saved the United States’ “full faith and credit” from default – and likely saved the global economy from a catastrophe. North Carolina’s other Republican Senator, Thom Tillis, voted for the debt-ceiling compromise. Had it not passed the Senate, or even if various GOP amendments had been approved, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer warned, a federal government default would have been inevitable. In the House of Representatives, Republican Seventh District Congressman David Rouzer supported McCarthy and voted “yes,” as did all but one of the North Carolina delegation.
Governor Roy Cooper Declares a State of Emergency for Public Education
Republicans want to expand private school vouchers so that anyone — even a millionaire — can get taxpayer money for their children’s private academy tuition. When kids leave public schools for private school, the public schools lose hundreds of millions of dollars. And while they hand out private school vouchers to millionaires, they also want to give them large tax breaks, too. This will shrink the state’s budget by almost 20%. Governor Cooper asks us to contact our legislators and tell them to use public money for public schools and fund public education!
Listen to voters and focus on independents, County Chair Jill Hopman says
The Democratic Party needs to focus on the issues voters are concerned with, newly elected County Party Chair Jill Hopman said in a recent interview with WHQR public radio. She was featured in the station’s weekly program The Newsroom” on May 12, which also featured the chair of the county Republican Party. In a conversation with WHQR News Director Ben Schachtman, Hopman said the party needs to tailor its messaging to issues that voters tell us are important to them, and not rely solely on what Democratic candidates may be running on. She also said the Democratic Party needs to work hard to get independent voters on our side. “We would be stupid to ignore them,” she said, given that independents – voters who don’t register as members of either party – make up around 40 percent of the county’s electorate. Hopman characterized that challenge as “a math problem,” the need to appeal to a huge bloc of voters who can be decisive in such a closely divided county.
NCDP 1st Vice Chair Joins NHC Democrats on Sunset Cruise
To the many familiar faces, and the many more that were new, **THANK YOU** for joining us for our Sunset Cruise on the Henrietta! Your support of our efforts here in NHC is greatly appreciated! And many thanks to Susanne Werner, Madeleine Henley, and Jim Fleagle for their work in scheduling this fun event, as well as arranging for yummy vittles, creating and managing our NGP ticket page, and so much more! We’re already talking about a repeat boat cruise in the fall, so be ready! □□
Investigations by local reporters and revelations by former Cape Fear Community College (CFCC) faculty and staff have revealed a pattern of authoritarian top-down leadership at CFCC, created by its president with support from some on its current board of directors. The current president, who had no prior experience as a college administrator, was selected by the CFCC trustees in 2018 by a cryptic process which included no search for other qualified applicants. Since then, numerous departing faculty, administrative staff, and ousted board members have reported publicly on working conditions within the school, describing them as abusive and non-professional. Long-term faculty and staff are forced out. Raises go to loyalists of the president. Some CFCC trustees and faculty have suggested that an employee survey, conducted by an independent third party, be conducted and the results used to evaluate and correct problems which affect CFCC’s success as an educational institution. Students suffer when faculty are afraid to make suggestions or offer criticisms.
Calling All Precincts and Auxiliaries!
Does your precinct or auxiliary group have something special going on? Perhaps a picnic, social, meeting, or other public gathering?
We'd love to post about it in the next newsletter!
Please use the "Comments and Suggestions" link below to let the Email Blast know about your event in advance or to share pictures after the event.
Pictured: NHCDP Delegates at the Congressional District Convention on May 20, 2023.
Events Calendar
NHC School Board Meeting – June 6
When: Tuesday, June 6, 5:00 p.m.
Where: Board of Education Center, 1805 S. 13th St.
This is the regular Board meeting for June 2023. Click to view the agenda: June 2023 Agenda
Where: The Parkside Gazebo, Brevard Drive, just off Town Center Drive near Mayfaire.
H05 is having an informal gathering on Saturday, June 10 from 4 to 6 pm at the Parkside Gazebo, Brevard Drive, just off Town Center near Mayfaire. Beverages and hors d'oeuvres provided.
Salette Andrews for Wilmington City Council Campaign Kickoff – June 11
When: Sunday, June 11 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Element Barclay, 1605 Barclay Pointe Blvd, Wilmington
Please join us for our campaign kickoff event hosted by James Fischer (and you?) at Element Barclay on Sunday, June 11, 2023, at 3:00 PM. We'll enjoy an afternoon in good company with sustainable wine and earth-friendly hors d'oeuvres in this beautiful setting. Join the host committee or purchase a ticket.
For questions, please contact Ellen Haragan at 917-586-9985 or info@electsalette.com.
2023 NCDP Labor Caucus Convention -- June 17
When: Saturday, June 17, 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Where: Chatham County Agriculture and Conference Center, 1192 US-64 Bus, Pittsboro, NC
Join the NCDP Labor Caucus for their annual convention. This year's convention shall include a keynote panel to discuss HB 504/S543 Remove Barriers to Labor Organizing as well as a lively and informative discussion of the challenges and dynamics of eliminating Right to Work in North Carolina moderated by the Hon Randy Voller Labor Caucus Vice Chair.
Voyage Wilmington to Host 3rd Annual Juneteenth Community Day -- June 17
When: Saturday, June 17, 12:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Portia Hines Park, 200 N 10th Street, Wilmington
Come and celebrate the Juneteenth holiday, a day to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States.
The NHC Democratic Party will have a table to talk with and register voters. We would love to see every good Dem at this event!
Precinct W28 Cookout Potluck -- June 17
When: Saturday, June 17, 2:00-5:00 p.m.
Where: Empie Park, 3405 Park Avenue, Wilmington
Precinct W28 is hosting a picnic with live music, potluck food, and speakers including Deb Butler, Clayton Hamerski, Dorian Cromartie, and Abby Lorenzo from Walk Wilmington. All are welcome!
Content by Rachel Hatfield and Kate and John Meyer
New Hanover County Democratic Party 5041 New Centre Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 United States
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May 29, 2023
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Because This Is America!
Weekly News, Updates, and Events
We As Democrats Believe:
"In addition to needed gun control reforms, America urgently needs a stronger protest movement dedicated to reducing the glorification of violence in our culture - in music, film, television, video games, and even the Internet."
Bernice King
Attorney and daughter of Martin Luther and Coretta Scott King
According to the gun violence archive, there had been more that 17,000 gun deaths in the United States by May 27. That includes 7,400 intentional and accidental shootings and 23 mass murders. And yet, North Carolina's GOP-dominated legislature voted two months ago to override Governor Cooper's veto and loosen handgun permit laws in the state.
Gun control advocates across the country are gathering in their communities to call for the kind of common sense gun laws that can lessen the carnage.
See details of the Wilmington march in events below.
Governor Roy Cooper Declares a State of Emergency for Public Education
Governor Roy Cooper has declared a state of emergency for public education. Republicans want to expand private school vouchers so that anyone — even a millionaire — can get taxpayer money for their children’s private academy tuition. When kids leave public schools for private school, the public schools lose hundreds of millions of dollars. And while they hand out private school vouchers to millionaires, they also want to give them large tax breaks, too. This will shrink the state’s budget by almost 20%. Governor Cooper asks all North Carolinians to contact their legislators and tell them to use public money for public schools and fund public education!
DOING: Republican-Controlled House of Representatives Threatens the United States with Economic Chaos
June 5th is the date that our Treasury Secretary, Janet Yellen, indicates that the U.S. government will begin the devastating process of defaulting on segments of our national debt. House Republicans have refused to raise the debt ceiling, which would allow the U.S. government to pay its current outstanding bills, unless Democrats agree to savage cuts in future spending. Republicans are presenting the United States with two widely unpopular alternatives; either accept a default on our national debt for the first time in our history, or agree to cuts in necessary and popular programs, including law enforcement, child nutrition, medical research, and veterans’ care. This is a crisis manufactured by House Republicans. Failure to raise the U.S. debt ceiling threatens the United States, and the world, with economic chaos. Republicans are planning to win by threats what they should instead be seeking by negotiation and compromise.
Mary Sue Oots, a fellow Democrat who served two terms as NHC Register of Deeds, passed away on Tuesday.
Mary Sue was keenly interested in government affairs and enjoyed in-depth political discourse with family and friends.
A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 3, at 3:00PM in the chapel of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Southport, followed by internment of ashes in the Memorial Garden.
Does your precinct or auxiliary group have something special going on? Perhaps a picnic, social, meeting, or other public gathering?
We'd love to post about it in the next newsletter!
Please use the "Comments and Suggestions" link below to let the Email Blast know about your event in advance or to share pictures after the event.
Pictured: H08 Social at Broomtail Pub and Arcade on Friday, May 19
Event Calendar
*EMERGENCY* Democratic Party Meeting -- May 30
When: Tuesday, May 30, 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Where: ZOOM (REGISTER IN ADVANCE; LINK BELOW)
All NHC Democrats are invited to attend.
**ATTENTION** VOTING MEMBERS of the County Executive Committee (CEC) - Your attendance is crucial as we must meet quorum to vote on replacements for two vacancies on the NHC Board of Elections. These two seats are vital to democracy as GOP counterparts seek to politicize this role and challenge our nation's democratic ideals. All voting members of the CEC are urged to attend this meeting.
Voting members include: County Executive Committee Officers, Presidents of County Chapters of State Auxiliary Organizations, Ex-Officio Members (elected officials), Precinct Chairs, and Precinct Vice Chairs.
Unable to attend? Proxies can be assigned to another Democrat in your organization or precinct, as long as that person is not already serving in that capacity for another voting member. The individual you assign as your proxy will have the authority to represent you and vote on your behalf for this meeting only. All proxies must be declared in writing and sent via email to the Party Secretary in advance of the meeting. Please send your email to newhanoverdems@gmail.com.
Where: Windell Daniel’s Hall, CFCC, 502 N Front St, Wilmington
Join the Cape Fear River Watch and special guests for a forum on the State of the River. The Cape Fear River is the lifeblood of our community, supporting countless ecological systems, our economy and our way-of-life. Learn about threats it is facing, what is being done to combat them, and network with like-minded folks on how to protect the river and our community for the next generations.
National Gun Violence Awareness March hosted by Moms Demand Action of Wilmington -- June 3
When: Saturday, June 3rd, 2:00 p.m.
Where: Greenfield Park, 1739 Burnett Blvd, Wilmington
As gun violence continues to plague our nation, we'll commemorate National Gun Violence Awareness week by joining together and marching in solidarity around Greenfield Lake to remember all the lives that have been affected by gun violence in our community and in our nation. RSVP here.
SOLD OUT! Sunset Cruise on the Henrietta -- June 3
When: Saturday, June 3, ticketholders begin boarding at6:30 p.m.
Where: Cape Fear Riverboats, 101 S Water St STE 1, Wilmington
H05 Precinct Gathering – June 10
When: Saturday, June 10, 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Where: The Parkside Gazebo, Brevard Drive, just off Town Center Drive near Mayfaire.
H05 is having an informal gathering on Saturday, June 10 from 4 to 6 pm at the Parkside Gazebo, Brevard Drive, just off Town Center near Mayfaire. Beverages and hors d'oeuvres provided.
For questions, please contact Kate Meyer.
Salette Andrews for Wilmington City Council Campaign Kickoff – June 11
When: Sunday, June 11 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Element Barclay, 1605 Barclay Pointe Blvd, Wilmington
Please join us for our campaign kickoff event hosted by James Fischer (and you?) at Element Barclay on Sunday, June 11, 2023, at 3:00 PM. We'll enjoy an afternoon in good company with sustainable wine and earth-friendly hors d'oeuvres in this beautiful setting. Join the host committee or purchase a ticket.
For questions, please contact Ellen Haragan at 917-586-9985 or info@electsalette.com.
2023 NCDP Labor Caucus Convention -- June 17
When: Saturday, June 17, 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Where: Chatham County Agriculture and Conference Center, 1192 US-64 Bus, Pittsboro, NC
Join the NCDP Labor Caucus for their annual convention. This year's convention shall include a keynote panel to discuss HB 504/S543 Remove Barriers to Labor Organizing as well as a lively and informative discussion of the challenges and dynamics of eliminating Right to Work in North Carolina moderated by the Hon Randy Voller Labor Caucus Vice Chair.
New Hanover County Democratic Party 5041 New Centre Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 United States
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May 22, 2023
Preview - 2023.May22.Hatfield
Because This Is America!
Weekly News, Updates, and Events
We As Democrats Believe:
“Crime is contagious. If the government becomes a lawbreaker, it breeds contempt for law; it invites every man to become a law unto himself; it invites anarchy.”
Louis D. Brandeis
Associate justice on the U.S. Supreme Court 1916 to 1939
Thanks to several legislators’ bad faith with their voters, the Republican super-majority in the N.C. General Assembly voted May 16 to override the veto of their harsh new restrictions on abortion. All 30 Republicans in the state Senate voted to overturn Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto; all 20 Democrats voted no. In the state House, the party-line vote was 72-48, enough by just one vote to meet the state constitution’s three-fifths rule. That one vote came from a former Democrat who had switched parties. Disregarding her own years-long advocacy for reproductive autonomy, she voted with her new GOP colleagues. The turncoat legislator Tricia Cotham’s betrayal of her constituents had given the hard-right GOP leadership a veto-proof majority. In addition to Cotham, Cooper had urged voters to contact three other Republican legislators who had previously promised to protect abortion rights. Two of those were Wilmington’s own Ted Davis and Michael Lee, who turned their backs on their own statements from the 2022 election campaign. Despite our best efforts, Davis and Lee voted both for the restrictive bill and to override the veto.
#SustainTheVeto - NHC Democrats Make National News
Our county’s efforts to sustain Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto of the Republicans’ latest attack on women’s bodily autonomy and health-care rights drew attention from “The New York Times” last week. A story published May 15 focused on Cooper’s visit to Wilmington the previous week, when he urged voters to ask legislators “to keep their promise” to preserve previous laws concerning abortion. The “Times” report described the New Hanover County Democratic Party’s “caller chain,” by which volunteers bombarded the phone lines of State Rep. Ted Davis and State Sen. Michael Lee, urging them to sustain Cooper’s veto – and for Davis to honor his earlier pledge to leave abortion law unchanged. (For details on our other telephone efforts to help sustain the veto, see the next item.) Sadly, though not surprisingly, Davis disregarded his promises, and like Lee he ignored voters’ appeals. Both followed their leadership to strike a blow against women’s rights and in favor of forced childbirth.
NHC Democrats Talk to Republican Voters; Davis Refuses
In the final two days leading up to the veto override vote, a small team of our county party’s veteran phone bankers took on an unusual challenge. Instead of their usual calls to stalwart Democrats and potential Democratic voters, this was a new mission. Our volunteers were calling Republican women. Their message: urging them to call Ted Davis about keeping his campaign promise to House District 20
voters. The callers’ target was 500 Republican women in Davis’ district, who our data suggested were supporters of abortion rights. The ask was simple: Call Ted NOW and tell him to keep his promise! Of the 457 calls attempted, 413 were completed, resulting in 75 direct conversations with Republican voters and 223 messages left. In fully half of the direct conversations, those voters said they were on our side of the issue, wanting to keep the state’s abortion laws unchanged. We were optimistic that many did what they said they would do and contacted their supposed “representative.” Davis might not be talking to his voters. But we are!
Mark Robinson Will Take Abortion Restrictions Even Further
(From the NCDP) - North Carolina Republicans’ dangerous abortion ban is just the beginning for Republican gubernatorial candidate Mark Robinson. If elected, he would pass a total abortion ban with no exceptions for rape or incest.
“Mark Robinson is even more extreme than his Republican colleagues in the legislature and if elected Governor, he wants to make abortion illegal for any reason even in the case of rape or incest,” said NCDP spokesperson Kate Frauenfelder. “We will keep working to hold him and the extreme field of GOP candidates accountable to ensure that their dangerous agenda does not become a reality for North Carolinians next fall.”
DOING: ‘Republican Judges on the North Carolina Supreme Court Approve Three New Voter Suppression Laws’
The supermajorities in the North Carolina House and Senate have been busy enacting various laws which decrease citizen participation in elections. Lately the General Assembly has been aided and abetted in this by the newly-elected Republican majority on the North Carolina Supreme Court.
Republicans on the high court overruled a lower court decision which had allowed felons who had completed their sentences and were on parole to vote, effectively disenfranchising 56,000 former felons who had paid their debt to society.
These same Republican judges overruled a previous decision by the high court to now require specific kinds of Photo ID in voting, despite evidence that such a requirement would make it more difficult for people of color and college students to vote.
And they reversed the previous high court decision, made late last year, effectively permitting the North Carolina legislature to continue to devise congressional and legislative maps which suppress Democratic voters’ impact in state-wise elections.
New Hanover County Democrats really showed up at this year's District Convention with over a quarter of all attendees hailing from our County! Thank you to everyone who participated!
Additionally, a tremendous thank you to Sonya Bennetone-Patrick for her tireless work in Congressional District 7 for the past three years. Thank you, Sonya! Her expertise will be invaluable as we work together, both NHCDP and the African American Caucus, to turn out the vote and win elections here in New Hanover County.
Congratulations to the following new officers:
Tom Simmons - Chair
Valencia Handy - 1 Vice Chair
Nathaniel Jacobs - 2 Vice Chair
Marlando Pridgen - 3 Vice Chair
Martha Harris - Secretary
Sunset Cruise Tickets...SOLD OUT!
Thank you so much for your support!
Ticketholders, please remember that boarding begins at 6:30pm on Saturday, June 3rd. See you then!
If you are missing this event, don't worry! This is the first of several smaller fundraisers that the NHCDP Fundraising Committee is planning for 2023. These fundraising events will take the place of the Unity Banquet which, moving forward, will take place in even-numbered years only.
Calling All Precincts and Auxiliaries!
Does your precinct or auxiliary group have something special going on? Perhaps a picnic, social, meeting, or other public gathering?
We'd love to post about it in the next newsletter!
Please use the "Comments and Suggestions" link below to let the Email Blast know about your event in advance or to share pictures after the event.
Pictured: H08 Social at Broomtail Pub and Arcade on Friday, May 19
Event Calendar
Volunteer Call with Attorney General Josh Stein -- May 22
**ATTENTION** VOTING MEMBERS of the County Executive Committee (CEC) - Your attendance is crucial as we must meet quorum to vote on replacements for two vacancies on the NHC Board of Elections. These two seats are vital to democracy as GOP counterparts seek to politicize this role and challenge our nation's democratic ideals. All voting members of the CEC are urged to attend this meeting.
Voting members include: County Executive Committee Officers, Presidents of County Chapters of State Auxiliary Organizations, Ex-Officio Members (elected officials), Precinct Chairs, and Precinct Vice Chairs.
Unable to attend? Proxies can be assigned to another Democrat in your organization or precinct, as long as that person is not already serving in that capacity for another voting member. The individual you assign as your proxy will have the authority to represent you and vote on your behalf for this meeting only. All proxies must be declared in writing and sent via email to the Party Secretary in advance of the meeting. Please send your email to newhanoverdems@gmail.com.
Hybrid State Executive Committee (SEC) Meeting -- June 24
When: Saturday, June 24, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Hybrid event - Raleigh and Zoom
Registration will open on May 24.
North Carolina Democratic Party's Unity Dinner -- June 24
When: Saturday, June 24, 7:00 p.m.
Where: NC State Talley Student Union, State Ballroom; 2610 Cates Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27606
While the NHCDP is not going to purchase a table, we encourage individuals to purchase their tickets and support the new officers of the North Carolina Democratic Party.
Cooper Vetoes Abortion Restrictions; Override Likely
(From Reuters) - North Carolina Democratic Governor Roy Cooper on Saturday vetoed a bill that would ban most abortions after 12 weeks, a move the Republican supermajority in the state legislature is expected to quickly override, allowing the bill to become law.
The measure would cut the window for most abortions in the state back from 20 weeks and curtail access to the procedure for millions of women across the U.S. south.
"This bill has nothing to do with making women safer and everything to do with banning abortion," Cooper said, calling on Republicans to reconsider their stance.
More than 150 People Rally in Wilmington to Support Reproductive Rights
Democrats and pro-choice, pro-women activists met at Innes Park in Downtown Wilmington on Saturday morning to rally in support of Governor Cooper's veto of Senate Bill 20 which was being signed in Raleigh at that very same time. Rally-goers were riled with speeches by various individuals and elected officials, then were asked to call Rep Ted Davis and Sen Michael Lee (see below for phone numbers and a script).
The Wilmington rally was among at least six across the state on Saturday.
We'd like to thank the organizers, speakers, and all who attended the rally, including:
Elizabeth McLeod - Pro-Choice North Carolina
Marla Barthen - Practicing RN; V-C of ERA Alliance NC
Sonya Bennetone-Patrick- Chair of Congressional District 7; National Black Leadership Caucus
Cynthia Muñóz - NHCDP Rapid Action Team
Our Dem friends in Brunswick, Pender, and Columbus Counties!
If Ted Davis Keeps Promises, Cooper's Veto Could Stand
(From Rolling Stone) When he was running for reelection to North Carolina’s House of Representatives this past October, Rep. Ted Davis gave an interview to the New Hanover County Republican Party. Calling abortion “a very personal, moral issue,” the Wilmington Republican said, “I believe in the [existing] law."
Davis is one of four North Carolina Republicans who promised voters they would not support the kind of extreme abortion restrictions that were negotiated in secret and brought to a vote with less than 24 hours notice and no period for public comment. If even just one of those four lawmakers keeps their word, North Carolina’s existing abortions laws — which allow terminations through 20 weeks — would remain in place.
DOING: ‘WHAT HAS GOP GENERAL ASSEMBLY BEEN UP TO?’
The GOP agenda:
Senate Bill 20 which will make elective abortions in NC difficult, if not impossible, to access.
Various bills targeting transgender and gay children.
Limiting one-stop early voting and reducing the grace period for the counting of mail-in ballots.
Allowing Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina to make changes which may impact the cost of premiums, the quality of medical networks, and standards of care for BCBS policyholders.
City Looks To Fill Several Vacant Spots On Boards/Commissions
Looking to get involved on a local Board or Commission? The Wilmington City Council is inviting interested citizens to offer their services to the following Boards, Commissions, and Committees:
FIREMEN’S RELIEF FUND BOARD OF TRUSTEES – (1) POSITION
Support your NHC Democratic Party and enjoy a summer sunset cruising the beautiful Cape Fear River and the Wilmington Port with good friends, refreshments, music, and a cash bar!
What: Sunset Cruise on the Henrietta
When: Saturday, June 3. Boarding begins at 6:30 p.m. and we'll depart into the sun at 7 p.m.
Where: Cape Fear River Boats, 101 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Cost: Tickets are $75 each and are limited to 100 people, so get yours asap.
This is the first of several smaller fundraisers that the NHCDP Fundraising Committee is planning for 2023. These fundraising events will take the place of the Unity Banquet which, moving forward, will take place in even-numbered years only.
Event Calendar
Monthly Meeting of the County Executive Committee (CEC) -- May 15
When: Monday, May 15, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Where: CFCC Health Sciences & Learning Resource Center, 415 N 2nd Street, Wilmington; (Parking: Lot across street is for visitors after 5pm)
*ATTENTION VOTING MEMBERS OF THE CEC* - We need to vote on replacements for two vacancies on the NHC Board of Elections. It is critical that all voting members of the CEC attend this meeting. Voting members include: County Executive Committee Officers, Presidents of County Chapters of State Auxiliary Organizations, Ex-Officio Members (elected officials), Precinct Chairs and Precinct Vice Chairs. The agenda for this meeting as well as information related to assigning proxies is forthcoming.
Join fellow precinct members for refreshments & conversation, to meet your county officers and play arcade games & pool,; kids & pets welcome; Seaview Crab Co. food truck on site.
2023 Congressional District Convention -- May 20
When: Saturday, May 20, 11:00 a.m.
Where: Robeson Community College Student Center, 5160 Fayetteville Road, Lumberton, NC
This Convention will elect new officers for the Seventh Congressional District Party. NHCDP has sometimes had poor participation in past years and needs your help to do better. Please make plans to attend, car pool with your local Democrats, and make our voice heard in this important Congressional District officer election. Recognition is usually given to the county with the highest attendance. Let's be the winner this year!
There will be food, music, resolutions, speakers and officer elections. Only delegates may vote, but others may attend. RSVP required to attend. Click here to register.
Sixth Annual Brunswick County Democratic Party Golf Tournament -- May 21
When: Sunday, May 21, Shotgun start at 8:30 a.m.
Where: Carolina National Golf Club, Bolivia, NC
The format is Captain's Choice/Scramble. Entry fee per golfer is $90 and includes a cart, range balls, longest drive and closest-to-the-pin contests, an awards lunch with beer, and lots of terrific prizes. Frank Herzog, former longtime "Voice of the Washington Redskins [now Commanders]" will again be the luncheon MC. Click Here for more information and to register.
Marlowe Foster for Wilmington City Council Reception -- May 31
When: Wednesday, May 31, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Where: Pine Valley Country Club, 500 Pine Valley Drive, Wilmington
Cotham Defection Clears Way for NC Abortion Restrictions
(From CNN) Tricia Cotham, whose recent defection from the Democratic Party handed their opponents a super majority, is surrounded by fellow Republicans in North Carolina's House of Representatives before it approved the SB20 bill limiting most abortions to the first trimester of pregnancy, a sharp drop from the state's current limit of 20 weeks gestation, at the State Capitol in Raleigh, North Carolina, May 3, 2023.
(Editor's comment: Notice that Cotham's colleagues shown here are all older white males who appear to be laughing.)
NC's GOP Senators Help Stymie Equal Rights Amendment
(From Roll Call) Less than two weeks ago, Senate Republicans, including North Carolina's Thom Tillis and Ted Budd, blocked a procedural measure to extend the deadline for states to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment.
Fifty-one senators voted to take up the measure, with 47 voting against doing so. The procedural vote Thursday needed 60 in support for the Senate to formally take up the measure.
Democrats are eager to tie the constitutional amendment to a list of recent abortion-related decisions by federal courts. “In this ominous hour of American history, the Equal Rights Amendment has never been as necessary and urgent as it is today," said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.
North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper has nominated Linda Cooper-Suggs and John M. Blackburn for seats on the State Board of Education, subject to approval by the General Assembly. Cooper-Suggs is replacing Amy White as the board’s District 3 representative, while Blackburn is nominated to represent the Northwest 7th District. The State Board of Education members serve eight-year terms.
From the DOING Issues Committee: People in North Carolina are herded today into two political camps – each claiming to act on behalf of the people if they’re given the power of elected office. The noise is so loud and political change so slow that many have decided to ignore politics completely.
How can we judge whether legislators are really helping us – and not just themselves? By watching what they actually do after they get elected and begin to exercise the power of government.
Have you got something special going on in your precinct? A party, picnic or other public gathering? A special speaker or event? A multi-precinct gathering?
If you're doing something you'd like others to know about, use the "Comments and Suggestions" link to let the Email Blast know! We'll include it in the next newsletter!
Pictured: FP precinct social (Mar 26) at Good Hops Brewing in Carolina Beach
Support your NHC Democratic Party and enjoy a summer sunset cruising the beautiful Cape Fear River and the Wilmington Port with good friends, refreshments, music, and a cash bar!
What: Sunset Cruise on the Henrietta
When: Saturday, June 3. Boarding begins at 6:30 p.m. and we'll depart into the sun at 7 p.m.
Where: Cape Fear River Boats, 101 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Cost: Tickets are $75 each and are limited to 100 people, so get yours asap.
This is the first of several smaller fundraisers that the NHCDP Fundraising Committee is planning for 2023. These fundraising events will take the place of the Unity Banquet which, moving forward, will take place in even-numbered years only.
Event Calendar
Sustain the Veto! Senate Bill 20 Abortion Restriction Opposition Kick-Off -- May 9
When: Tuesday, May 9, 6:30 to 7:15 p.m.
Where: Zoom
The NHCDP is organizing a Rapid Action Team around N.C. Senate Bill 20. We are building out a toolbox of sample phone, email, and social media messages that we’ll review during this short, online meeting. Attendees will have access to these documents after the meeting and we’ll also include a break-down of some of the bill’s more dangerous provisions. With the help of these aids, we’re asking everyone to call, email, and tag Sen. Lee and Rep. Davis by the end of the day on Friday, May 12.
Democratic Women of New Hanover County Spring Membership Social -- May 10
When: Wednesday, May 10, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Bull City Ciderworks, 615 South 17th Street, Wilmington
No business, just a fun family event. Get a chance at a $25 gift card by bringing a guest who then joins Dem Women of NHC. Unable to attend? Renew your membership by clicking here.
M (Masonboro) Precinct Cluster Meet-and-Greet -- May 13
When: Saturday, May 13, 12:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Where: Arrowhead Park, 720 Arnold Rd, Wilmington
The M precinct cluster (M02, M03, M04, M06, M07) is having a meet-and-greet at Arrowhead Park on Saturday, May 13. Known candidates for Wilmington City Council have been invited to speak.
NHCDP at Port City Blitz's "Punk Flea and Swap Meet" -- May 13
When: Saturday, May 13, 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.
Where: Reggie's 42nd Street Tavern, 1415 S 42nd St, Wilmington
Join the NHCDP as we host a table at Port City Blitz's "Punk Flea and Swap Meet". We will proudly represent the NHCDP and engage with attendees to:
Share the ideals of the Dem Party,
Encourage them to get involved,
and more!
We will also be handing out free schwag!
While at the event, enjoy live music, food trucks, dark arts and crafts, punk stuff, music gear, and funky goods.
Monthly Meeting of the County Executive Committee (CEC) -- May 15
When: Monday, May 15, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Where: CFCC Health Sciences & Learning Resource Center, 415 N 2nd Street, Wilmington; (Parking: Lot across street is for visitors after 5pm)
*ATTENTION VOTING MEMBERS OF THE CEC* - We need to vote on replacements for two vacancies on the NHC Board of Elections. It is critical that all voting members of the CEC attend this meeting. Voting members include: County Executive Committee Officers, Presidents of County Chapters of State Auxiliary Organizations, Ex-Officio Members (elected officials), Precinct Chairs and Precinct Vice Chairs. The agenda for this meeting as well as information related to assigning proxies is forthcoming.
Congressional District Chairman Candidates Discussion -- May 17
When: Wednesday, May 17, 7:00 p.m.
Where: ZOOM
*ATTENTION Congressional District Delegates* - Please attend this candidate discussion ahead of the May 20th Convention.
Where: Robeson Community College Student Center, 5160 Fayetteville Road, Lumberton, NC
This Convention will elect new officers for the Seventh Congressional District Party. NHCDP has sometimes had poor participation in past years and needs your help to do better. Please make plans to attend, car pool with your local Democrats, and make our voice heard in this important Congressional District officer election. Recognition is usually given to the county with the highest attendance. Let's be the winner this year!
There will be food, music, resolutions, speakers and officer elections. Only delegates may vote, but others may attend. RSVP required to attend. Click here to register.
Sixth Annual Brunswick County Democratic Party Golf Tournament -- May 21
When: Sunday, May 21, Shotgun start at 8:30 a.m.
Where: Carolina National Golf Club, Bolivia, NC
The format is Captain's Choice/Scramble. Entry fee per golfer is $90 and includes a cart, range balls, longest drive and closest-to-the-pin contests, an awards lunch with beer, and lots of terrific prizes. Frank Herzog, former longtime "Voice of the Washington Redskins [now Commanders]" will again be the luncheon MC. Click Here for more information and to register.
Marlow Foster for Wilmington City Council Reception -- May 31
When: Wednesday, May 31, 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Where: Pine Valley Country Club, 500 Pine Valley Drive, Wilmington
New Hanover County Democratic Party 5041 New Centre Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 United States
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May 1, 2023
Preview - 2023.May1.Cummings
Because This Is America!
Weekly News, Updates, and Events
We As Democrats Believe:
"This is what Kevin McCarthy is basically saying: 'If you don't agree to live on half the food you ate last year, we'll also stop paying your mortgage and your mortgage will be foreclosed on.' All you're going to wind up then is being both hungry and homeless."
Congress Member Katie Porter on Kevin McCarthy debt limit threat
(From NBC News) President Joe Biden made his re-election bid official Tuesday, capping months of speculation over his plans four years to the day since he announced his 2020 campaign.
In a video announcement, Biden said that after he has spent his first term fighting for the country’s democracy, "MAGA extremists are lining up" to cut the social safety net and take away personal liberties.
"Cutting Social Security that you’ve paid for your entire life while cutting taxes for the very wealthy. Dictating what health care decisions women can make, banning books and telling people who they can love. All while making it more difficult for you to be able to vote," he said.
Some Biden-Harris Achievements so far:
Lowering Costs of Families’ Everyday Expenses
Rescued the Economy and Changed the Course of the Pandemic
Protected Marriage for LGBTQI+ and Interracial Couples
Confirmation of Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson and Federal Judges of Diverse Backgrounds
Rallied the World to Support Ukraine in Response to Putin’s Aggression
Delivering on the Most Aggressive Climate and Environmental Justice Agenda in American History
(From New York Times) Last year, Democratic justices on the North Carolina Supreme Court ruled that maps of the state’s legislative and congressional districts drawn to give Republicans lopsided majorities were illegal gerrymanders. On Friday, the same court, now led by a newly elected Republican majority, looked at the same facts, reversed itself and said it had no authority to act.
The practical effect is to enable the Republican-controlled General Assembly to scrap the court-ordered State House, Senate and congressional district boundaries that were used in elections last November, and draw new maps skewed in Republicans’ favor for elections in 2024. The 5-to-2 ruling fell along party lines, reflecting the takeover of the court by Republican justices in partisan elections last November.
The decision has major implications not just for the state legislature, where the G.O.P. is barely clinging to the supermajority status that makes its decisions veto-proof, but for the U.S. House, where a new North Carolina map could add at least three Republican seats in 2024 to what is now a razor-thin Republican majority.
DOING ASKS: 'What Has GOP Done for You Lately'
From the DOING Issues Committee: In April, Republicans advanced destructive initiatives in Washington, Raleigh, and in the Courts.
House Republicans are threatening to damage the economy by reneging on the debt ceiling unless they get savage reductions in government programs.
Republicans in Raleigh continue their legislative assault on a woman’s right to choose. Right-wing judges propose complete withdrawal of effective abortion medication.
Rep. Ted Davis, Jr. authors yet another voter-suppression bill, eliminating the grace period for counting mail-in ballots after an election.
Pictured: FP precinct social (Mar 26) at Good Hops Brewing in Carolina Beach
Have you got something special going on in your precinct? A party, picnic or other public gathering? A special speaker or event? A multi-precinct gathering?
For example, several precincts are getting together at Panacea Brewing Company in May for a "Spring Into Action" event (details in Events Calendar).
If you're doing something you'd like others to know about, use the "Comments and Suggestions" link to let the Email Blast know!
Support your NHC Democratic Party and enjoy a summer sunset cruising the beautiful Cape Fear River and the Wilmington Port with good friends, refreshments, music, and a cash bar!
What: Sunset Cruise on the Henrietta
When: Saturday, June 3. Boarding begins at 6:30 p.m. and we'll depart into the sun at 7 p.m.
Where: Cape Fear River Boats, 101 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Cost: Tickets are $75 each and are limited to 100 people, so get yours asap.
This is the first of several smaller fundraisers that the NHCDP Fundraising Committee is planning for 2023. These fundraising events will take the place of the Unity Banquet which, moving forward, will take place in even-numbered years only.
Event Calendar
W17, W21, W31 Midtown Dems Spring into Action event -- May 7
It's time to "Spring Into Action," and for New Hanover County Democrats that means building for the future by meeting more of you! Come meet some of your elected officials and grab a Kombucha with your neighbors! Please join us! Feel free to invite a friend, regardless of their precinct affiliation.
Democratic Women of New Hanover County Spring Membership Social -- May 10
When: Wednesday, May 10, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Bull City Ciderworks, 615 South 17th Street, Wilmington
No business, just fun family event. Bring a new member who joins and you each get a chance at a $25 gift card.
Monthly Meeting of the County Executive Committee (CEC) -- May 15
When: Monday, May 15, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Details TBA
*ATTENTION VOTING MEMBERS OF THE CEC* - We need to vote on replacements for two vacancies on the NHC Board of Elections. It is critical that all voting members of the CEC attend this meeting. Voting members include: County Executive Committee Officers, Presidents of County Chapters of State Auxiliary Organizations, Ex-Officio Members (elected officials), Precinct Chairs and Precinct Vice Chairs. The agenda for this meeting as well as information related to assigning proxies is forthcoming.
2023 Congressional District Convention -- May 20
When: Saturday, May 20
Where: Details TBA
This Convention will elect new officers for the Seventh Congressional District Party. NHCDP has sometimes had poor participation in past years and needs your help to do better. Please make plans to attend, car pool with your local Democrats, and make our voice heard in this important Congressional District officer election. Recognition is usually given to the county with the highest attendance. Let's be the winner this year!
Sixth Annual Brunswick County Democratic Party Golf Tournament -- May 21
When: Sunday, May 21, Shotgun start at 8:30 a.m.
Where: Carolina National Golf Club, Bolivia, NC
The format is Captain's Choice/Scramble. Entry fee per golfer is $90 and includes a cart, range balls, longest drive and closest-to-the-pin contests, an awards lunch with beer, and lots of terrific prizes. Frank Herzog, former longtime "Voice of the Washington Redskins [now Commanders]" will again be the luncheon MC. Click Here for more information and to register.
Our new leadership team will serve until the spring convention of 2025.
They are (left to right):
First vice-chair Sam Pierce
Chair Jill Hopman
Second vice-chair Jim Fleagle
Treasurer (appointed) Brenda Fong
Third vice-chair Dorian Cromartie
Secretary Rachel Hatfield
One of the first people to take the podium after the announcement that Jill Hopman had been elected chair was Marcia Morgan who had run against her. Marcia gave her sincere congratulations to Jill and promised to do whatever she could to support Jill in moving the party forward. It was a moment in the New Hanover County Convention on Saturday that drew the loudest, most sustained applause of the day from the 227 delegates in attendance.
Unity was the theme of the day as representatives from each of the county's 37 organized Democratic precincts met to chart our course through the critical 2024 elections. State Party Chair Anderson Clayton (shown speaking here) said the Democratic goal EVERY DAY must be to become a unified force against a toxic Republican agenda for America.
More from the convention
The following delegates were elected to represent New Hanover County on the State Executive Committee:
Carter Jewell
Leslie Cohen
Jill Hopman
Elli Klein
Cramer Vaughan
Veronica McLaurin-Brown
Dorian Cromartie
Richard Poole
Clayton Hamerski
James Fischer
Raphael Toro
Kevin Littlejohn
Special thanks to:
Madeleine Henley organized check-in, ballot collection and tellers.
Diana Hill, Susanne Werner and Jim Fleagle for refreshments.
Rachel Hatfield for the projected information system.
Jim Fleagle and Salette Andrews for computerized vote tallying.
Jennifer Macneish for minutes.
Carlette Grissett for time-keeping.
Parliamentarian Jim Morgan.
Barbara Garrow and office volunteers for preparing the convention packets.
Jill Hopman for printing.
Herb Harton for sound system.
George Vlasits assisting with set-up
June 3 Sunset Cruise Available While They Last
The Fundraising Committee is planning a Sunset Cruise on the Henrietta on June 3. Boarding will begin at 6:30 p.m. and the boat departs at 7 p.m. Tickets are $75 each and are limited to 100 people, so get yours asap.
Support your NHC Democratic Party and enjoy a summer sunset cruising the beautiful Cape Fear River and the Wilmington Port with good friends, refreshments, music, and cash bar.
Cape Fear River Boats, 101 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Amy Block DeLoach from here in New Hanover County ran a spirited campaign to unseat six-term Republican Ted Davis in the North Carolina House of Representatives in 2020. But she fell about 1,000 votes short.
Now Davis is using his narrow victory to carry on the GOP campaign of making it harder to vote. Davis and three others introduced a bill that would reduce the number of days for One-Stop voting from 17 in 2022 to 7 in 2024.
Click below to see the DOING Issues Committee breakdown of the move.
NHCDP Labor Caucus Meeting (mark your calendar) -- April 24
When: Monday, April 24, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Via ZOOM, address TBA
The Labor Caucus of the New Hanover County Democratic Party advances the needs of working people and unions in Congress. You may join the state Labor Caucus for $12 a year at https://secure.actblue.com/donate/nclcmember
This Convention will elect new officers for the Seventh Congressional District Party. NHCDP has sometimes had poor participation in past years and needs your help to do better. Please make plans to attend, car pool with your local Democrats, and make our voice heard in this important Congressional District officer election. Recognition is usually given to the county with the highest attendance. Let's be the winner this year!
Sixth Annual Brunswick County Democratic Party Golf Tournament -- May 21
When: Sunday, May 21, Shotgun start at 8:30 a.m.
Where: Carolina National Golf Club, Bolivia, NC
The format is Captain's Choice/Scramble. Entry fee per golfer is $90 and includes a cart, range balls, longest drive and closest-to-the-pin contests, an awards lunch with beer, and lots of terrific prizes. Frank Herzog, former longtime "Voice of the Washington Redskins [now Commanders]" will again be the luncheon MC. Click Here for more information and to register.