Everything you wanted to know about Eastie Primary (March 3) Elections

On the March 3, 2020 ballot, there are 4 elections you can vote in. Be prepared for all 4 so you can be a well-informed and fully engaged citizen.

Presidential – you know all about that
State Committee Man: The Democratic State Committee in Massachusetts has one man from every state senate district (Ours would be the same as Senator Boncore’s). Term: 4 years
State Committee Woman: The Democratic State Committee in Massachusetts has one woman from every state senate district. Term: 4 years
Democratic Ward Committee: This is for East Boston. Term: 4 years

What does the state committee do?
- promote the aims of the party
- work in cooperation with the national committee and town and ward committees
- organize and work for the nomination and election of party candidates
What does the ward committee do?
- grassroots organizing
  - What does this mean? For example, if you and many of your neighbors felt addressing traffic congestion is a one of the top priorities in Eastie, then the Eastie Dems (let’s call the Ward Committee that — sounds friendlier) should know that, recognize that, and act accordingly in their decisions and campaigns.
- conducting caucuses in order to elect delegates to represent the ward at party conventions (These delegates then vote to endorse candidates)
  - For instance, in Markey vs Kennedy for the US senate seat nomination, the delegates will decide in the state convention.
Do we have a ward committee?
- Yes. Every ward does.
Why don’t I know about it?
- The answer depends on your level of connectedness to local politics and the ward committee’s commitment to outreach
How do I decide who would be a good ward committee member?
1. Think about these questions:
  - Who is likely to reach out to you so you can attend any ward committee meeting and caucus you may be interested in?
  - Who is interested in representing the people’s voice?
  - Who values transparency, inclusiveness, diversity, and civic engagement?
  - Who gives you the confidence that the ward committee’s priorities will reflect the community’s priorities?
Can I select an entire group?
- Yes. Just fill in the oval next to “Group X” That’s all you have to do.