Politics & Government
Swampscott Dems Prepare for 2012
Local Democrats hold first meeting of new year; prepare for annual caucus to elect delegates to state convention.
This article was submitted by John Moynihan.
held their first meeting of 2012 with a focus on the upcoming elections, community education, and good governance.
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Throughout 2011 and in prior years, the SDTC held monthly Reduce Hunger Food Drives to support food pantries in Swampscott and Lynn. This joint project with Nahant DTC and North Shore Young Democrats, coordinated by Laura Coppola Spathanas, brought together members of the community to address a common issue, food insecurity.
Additionally, a series of topical discussions entitled “The Politics of Inequality” examined health care, the food industry, Wall Street, the socio-economic dynamics of New England fishery, and other segments of society to better understand their impact of the quality of life in America.
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“2012 is a great time to be an American,” said Ralph Edwards, SDTC Chair. “We have many opportunities to serve this great Nation and address the numerous and complex challenges we face. Participating in the electoral process as candidate, volunteer, and voter is a hard won right of every citizen.”
Members were encouraged to find the candidate for national or state office to support.
Rich Frenkel, Swampscott Obama for America (OFA) Coordinator, reported that prior to the New Hampshire primary several canvassing and get out the vote trips were made to the Portsmouth area.
“The New Hampshire voters really enjoy the political conversation. In the coming months, we will focus on outreach and voter education in Swampscott to get more people involved in local efforts,” he said.
The meeting highlight was a presentation on good governance by State Auditor Suzanne Bump. She noted several initiatives of her office to assure that state funds are used appropriately as intended and also effectively.
The Auditor’s Office evaluates agencies and organizations to determine if internal controls are in place to ensure the integrity of financial management systems. Importantly, in addition to financial audits, programs outcomes and benefits are also evaluated.
On Feb. 11th, the SDTC will elect delegates to the Massachusetts Democratic Convention to be held in Springfield, on June 2nd.
All registered Democrats are invited to attend. The meeting will be held at the Swampscott Senior Center, beginning at 10 a m.
For more information, contact Ralph Edwards at redwards747@verizon.net .
