October 22, 2024
Fellow Democrats,

We are in the final two weeks of the 2024 political campaign.  I can say, with confidence, that the stalwart members of the Mathews County Democratic Committee continue to go all out to try to influence the outcome of this election.  And we have attracted new members along the way.

Over the last couple of months, I have spent a considerable amount of time knocking on doors in Mathews for the Democratic ticket.  Canvassing in Mathews is not like walking suburban neighborhoods or city apartment buildings.  Finding people who live along our rural byways and down our many lanes,  many in homes with less than consistent house numbers, is a challenge.  We have met all kinds of people, some living in the most humble surroundings, some who are solidly middle class, and some who appear to be well-off.

The advent of doorbells with cameras presents new barriers to political outreach.  It allows people who are not inclined to talk to people they don't know, to ignore us.  We don't approach homes with no trespassing signs, barking dogs, Confederate flags, or Trump signs.  No point in asking for trouble.

What keeps me hopeful is the number of people I do not know who are voting for Kamila Harris: more women than men, for sure.  Some people are very glad to see us, pleased that we are asking their opinion.  Many are grateful when we offer them signs or bumper stickers.  A few report they are Republicans, but cannot vote for Trump.  Like me, most are worried about what will happen to our country if Trump is elected.  They thank us for what we are doing.

We have met our share of Trump supporters, too. Mostly, they just say no thank you and close the door.  Some people just say they are Republicans, which can mean they are not voting for Trump, but aren't going to talk about it.  A few can be hostile, but I never feel threatened.

We have run into a few people who haven't made up their minds yet.  We do our best to hear them out and to answer their questions.  Maybe our presence at their doors has helped them make a favorable decision for Harris and Walz.

I have canvassed in many elections, including in Mathews.  It is hard work, but an invaluable opportunity to meet my neighbors, to discover new places in my community, and to learn how others are thinking about the issues of the day.

We will be canvassing Sunday, October 29 and November 2, 3, and 4.  Please join us.  Just give me a call at 540-907-2993.


Sheila