WASHINGTON–Massachusetts State Attorney General Martha Coakley’s defeat in the race for the late Ted Kennedy’s Senate seat against Republican Scott Brown reminds young Democratic activists of the importance of engaging and getting out the youth vote in the upcoming election cycle.
In addition to Massachusetts, Young Democratic Organizations in states including California Connecticut, New York, Virginia, Kansas, Minnesota, Florida, South Dakota, Louisiana, Maryland, and Texas organized themselves to make over 100,000 calls for Senate candidate Martha Coakley, but the campaign effort was not enough. The loss should remind Democratic leaders to utilize youth organizations for their proven savvy approach to peer-to-peer grassroots campaigning and social media, early in the upcoming 2010 mid-term elections.
“Coakley’s defeat serves as a rallying call for young, Democratic activists to remain energized and optimistic leading into the 2010 election season. With important legislation such as health insurance reform being discussed, which remains a priority agenda item for young people, youth activists must remain engaged,” said Joseph Lazzerini, Young Democrats of Massachusetts At-Large Board Member.
Victory in the 2010 elections will allow Democrats to maintain a progressive edge in the Senate and the House; and help propel pending legislation supported by the Obama Administration.
“It is our hope that the election of a Republican Senator does not delay the debate and final passage of vital legislation, including health insurance reform, job creation, and increasing access and affordability to higher education. It would be a shame if one vote was able to reverse the hard work and progress that has been made when we are so close to passing meaningful reform,” said YDA President Crystal Strait.
