Democratic Club
By Mary Larson
LW contributor
There is only a very short time left before Californians will receive their vote-by-mail ballots. With that in mind, LW Democratic Club members have been intensifying their efforts to reach potential voters.
The club’s message is a simple one. How LW residents vote—as well as how those living in neighboring districts vote—could determine which party controls the House of Representatives, beginning in 2023.
It is clear that the newly constituted Congressional District sits at the nexus of crosscurrents shaping the 2022 election. Democrat Katie Porter is running for reelection in the 47th District. Democrat Mike Levin is running for reelection in District 49, located south of Leisure World. Republicans Michelle Steel and Young Kim are running for reelection in neighboring Districts 45 and 40.
The Cook Political Report rates the Porter and Levin races as “leaning Democrat.” Steel’s race is “leaning Republican,” and Kim’s race is “likely Republican.” This means the outcome in all four races could come down to what no preferred party voters decide to do. With that in mind, the Democratic Club has been, and will continue to, make a special effort to reach these potential voters. The results to date have been very encouraging.
The club is also encouraged by the number of potential voters visiting the hospitality/information booth located in the parking lot outside Clubhouse 6.
One new resident was looking for information about how to register to vote. She seemed very eager to become part of the LW Democratic Club. Another resident stopped by to ask about the Propositions. Volunteers staffing the booth advised her to vote “no” on 27. They also invited her to attend the next membership meeting, which would feature a report on all of the propositions on the November ballot.
Another LW resident stopped by with a question about mail she had received stating “there may be someone in your home who is not registered.” She feels the group that sent these letters meant well but that they upset and scare people. She said, “It is painful for people like me who have lost a loved one.”
A resident who was previously a member of another party, came by to offer words of support. Another resident had questions concerning political “propaganda” that was left at her unit.
A resident stopped in to talk about how confused he and other people are because of misinformation. Other visitors commented that they were glad there were not any offensive signs at the booth.
During October, the booth will be open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Information about the election, as well as club membership ,will be available.
Democrats and supporters are also invited to subscribe to the Democratic Club’s newsletter for more detailed information by emailing democraticclubsblw@ gmail.com or calling (562) 296-8521. People are asked to include their full name, address and phone number, as well as party affiliation.
