On Sunday July 19, Knox County Democrats participated in a statewide process to select delegates whose sole job is to choose our next Democratic candidate for US Senate to replace Susan Collins.  The participation was phenomenal. We had 1,046 registered Democrats certified to vote with 857 completing the process to select a slate of 18 delegates and 4 alternates to participate in a statewide convention on July 25 in Bangor. Knox County had the 3rd highest proportional turnout of Dems across Maine.  

This day was a tremendous testimony to the democratic process and the power of good people working with intention to make a difference.  People streamed into Oceanside High School to meet prospective delegates and speak with volunteers supporting various people running for the Senate - and even a couple of those candidates.  They were also greeted by some of the Dems running for office in Knox County. Participants had a choice to vote electronically in the auditorium or to vote from home.

I heard from so many people who expressed how impressed they were about the organization of the event and the enthusiasm of those present.  The day moved smoothly with the cheerful assistance of a small army of volunteers.   We rocked this day! We succeeded on the weight of everyone involved!

There have been concerns expressed that the voting resulted in a slate of delegates who mostly seem to support Troy Jackson.  Some have even suggested the process was undermined. In reality, Jackson’s team succeeded in coalescing prospective delegates quickly and decisively and communicated that fact. This was a winning strategy, showing both political skill and organizing chops. If the winning candidate can retain the support and momentum of thousands who were part of Platner’s organization, it bodes very well for our chances of retiring Susan Collins. We have one goal - to defeat Susan Collins.