WHAT IS A DEMOCRATIC COMMITTEE
To organize the structure and flow of the party, registered party voters elect two people from each election district to represent their neighbors within the party—these people are called Committee People.
Committee people serve as the liaisons between their neighbors, the Democratic party, and elected Democratic government officials. The core of this job is getting out the vote on election day. But this role can—and should be—so much more than that. Committee people are the bridge between voters and government. This role can be big or small, depending on the person and the division. But the potential for making this role meaningful and impactful cannot be overstated.
ROLE IN ELECTIONS
Facilitating engagement around elections is arguably the single most important thing a committeeperson does.
As a committeeperson, you can change the way your electoral district votes. You have the power to help your neighbors be more informed, and to inspire a higher, or lower level of engagement. As a committeeperson, your role in elections can be massive. You are responsible for:
- – Petitioning to get Democratic candidates on the ballot.
- – Educating the people in your division about candidates.
- – Informing people about upcoming election timetables so they remember to vote.
- – Recruiting poll watchers to make sure everyone has equal and fair access to vote.
- – Getting your neighbors out to vote!
PETITIONING
Committee people and party volunteers are responsible for collecting signatures from registered party members to endorse a candidate for open positions. Each candidate must have the endorsement of a certain percentage of registered voters in their district to get on the ballot for any given election.
Most citizens have a strong opinion about big races (President, Senator, Congressman), but few people have any idea about candidates in smaller elections (judicial races, for example). Part of the petitioning process is informing party members about the candidates running for office and driving election turn out.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I get on the committee?
Committee persons must walk door to door to gather signatures at the beginning of every even year; this is called petitioning. If you are looking at this FAQ at any other time, please contact us so we can have you appointed until the next round of petitioning.
2. How does petitioning work?
We will work with you to provide you with a list of Democrat friendly doors to knock on and train you in how to do it. We will also make sure that no one is walking alone so everyone is prepared and safe.
3. What if I cannot walk and knock doors for various reasons?
Please contact us so we can work to accommodate you.
4. Is there a fee associated with committee membership?
There is no fee but we do encourage you to donate to the committee if you can so that we can fund events, help candidates and provide assistance to the communities of our town. We are accountable for the funds that we spend.
5. What am I expected to do as a committee person or how can I help the committee?
As a committee person, you should attend meetings, either in person or via zoom. You can donate funds and/or help us raise funds, help plan events, help work on community outreach, help with constituent outreach by walking or doing phone or text banking, help with social media, reach out to your friends and family to get them involved, etc. Opportunities to help the committee will come up regularly and we encourage you to participate in as many as work for you.
6. Are there any benefits to being part of the committee?
Definitely! Your participation will help steer the committee to address the needs of the town’s residents so that Islip can be its best for all of us and for future generations. Plus, you will have lots of fun with a lot of great people.
7. Am I able to participate and/or help if I am not on the committee?
Of course! You can attend meetings and work with us on our projects and goals even if you are not a committee person. However, you will not be able to vote on any items.