Action Under the Dome For Monday, Dec. 4

Monday, December 4, 2023
Jen Lancaster
 

It's Monday, December 4.

December is a slow month for most, but for us, we have to prepare for the Legislature and March elections. Keep reading to learn about our December events and how we're taking action now ahead of a busy winter season. 
 
We're incredibly sad to report that a former colleague and friend, Lado Lodoka, passed away suddenly over the weekend. It's devastating news. He was a passionate housing and democracy advocate while he worked with the League. The South Sudanese community has organized a fundraiser to cover funeral expenses, and you can donate here
 
 
 

Things will pick up again on January 3, 2024, but we've been preparing for what's to come. In the new year we'll tackle these priority issues:

  • National Popular Vote
  • Campaign Finance Reform
  • Tribal Sovereignty 
  • Gun Safety

Want to learn more about these topics and our stances on these issues? Plus, how you can take action? Be sure to sign up for our Looking Ahead to the Legislature webinar on December 12. 

 
 
Mainers with disabilities, and all Mainers, should feel empowered to exercise their right to vote

Bangor Daily News ran this recent op-ed from Disability Rights Maine. 

"People placed under guardianship based on being diagnosed with a mental illness can vote in Maine and have been able to do so for the past 22 years. Voters’ rejection of Question 8 earlier this month [November] does not change this fact.

"This ballot question would have finally aligned Maine’s source document with this decision and removed discriminatory and unenforceable language. We are disheartened that voters failed to approve it.

"Let us be clear: This rejection does not change the voting rights of any person under guardianship. People under guardianship already had the right to vote and continue to have that right. This right is not in jeopardy."

Read the entire op-ed here.