Young leaders Cooper Reed and Madison Cook organized a lively and welcoming December 14 gathering of nearly three dozen Democrats at Marshall Wharf Brewery in Belfast. Envisioned as a social, informal way to come together, the event focused on talking politics, building relationships, and strengthening community as we ramp up for the new election cycle. It was energizing to see many familiar faces alongside new and younger neighbors joining the mix.
Invitations were extended to all declared Democratic candidates up and down the ballot, and the turnout was impressive! Despite white-out snow conditions in part of the state, gubernatorial candidates Dr. Nirav Shah, Hannah Pingree and Jason Cherry, and U.S. Senate candidate Tucker Favreau made it up to Belfast to talk with voters. Cooper Reed shared his plans to collect signatures in support of Shenna Bellows for governor. Trudy Miller from Social Capital came armed with enviable merch from the U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner’s “Graham Camp” and shared insights into the campaign’s ambitious signature collection strategy.
Attendees were excited to have meaningful and personal conversations with such impressive political figures in our state. Dr. Shah even made the time to take photos with several attendees, including Gloria (newly elected Belfast City Councilor Dan Miller’s St. Bernard).
Among the young leaders in attendance, Emilie Gruchow and Brian Jenkins represented Indivisible Waldo County and shared their experience as protest medics.
Young at heart leaders, including State Senator Chip Curry, Waldo County Dems Chair Paige Ziegler, and “Belfast’s pragmatic provocateur” Mike Hurley and others were present, adding depth and continuity to the gathering. Much of the change-making in Waldo County is led by experienced activists, and their presence, mentorship, and lived experience are helping to welcome the next generation into this work.
We look forward to the next Young and Young at Hearts gathering and hope to see you there (details to come!).
