President's Message: Finding Hope in Challenging Times
As we move into a new month — and closer to the end of what has undoubtedly been a difficult year under the current administration — I want to acknowledge the strain many of us have felt. Even so, our club and our community continue to show resilience, heart, and commitment to the values we share.
Looking ahead to 2026, we have real opportunities to make a difference. We can take charge of the things within our control — supporting candidates, organizing, staying informed, and building stronger connections within our community. Every conversation, every volunteer hour, every act of kindness brings us closer to the future we're working toward.
And in the midst of it all, I hope we each take a moment to appreciate the blessings in our lives. Our families, our friends, and the people who stand with us remind us why this work matters and why we keep pushing forward.
Wishing you a month of peace, gratitude, and renewed determination.
Happy Holidays!
Cheryl Hays, President
Trump's War On Drugs Is Anything But
Excerpt by Sean Thompson
Maritime drug smuggling has historically been handled as a law enforcement issue by the Coast Guard. In fiscal year 2025, the Coast Guard interdicted 14 vessels off the coast of Venezuela, seizing cocaine and marijuana without killing anyone. Since September, Operation Southern Spear has destroyed 23 vessels and resulted in dozens of deaths, with no drugs recovered from those strikes and no evidence provided that the targets were tied to cartels.
After the Shutdown... Now What?
Summary of Ross Bogan's analysis
With the shutdown over, Ross looks at what Democrats actually gained: restored SNAP cuts for families, a forced January showdown that keeps ACA subsidies front and center, and widening fractures inside the GOP coalition as scandals resurface. The lesson: leverage the spotlight, organize for the next deadline, and keep the focus on tangible outcomes for people.
The Transparent Election Initiative
Quick take and source link
A Montana ballot initiative proposes a state-level path to curb corporate money in elections by redefining corporate powers at their legal source: state corporate charters. Rather than regulating a right, the plan would simply not grant corporations the power to spend on election activities in the first place. Legal scholars argue this relies on longstanding doctrine and could be more durable than traditional campaign finance rules.
City of Tracy Districting Update
On August 26, 2025, the City Council adopted a resolution stating its intent to transition from at-large to by-district council member elections under California Elections Code Section 10010. If approved, the City anticipates conducting two district elections in November 2026 and two in November 2028. The Mayor would remain an at-large citywide position with elections every two years. Consultants Wagaman Strategies and Tripepi Smith are assisting the process.
Stay informed and view draft maps: cityoftracy.org/districting
Considering a future run in your district or have questions? Contact Robin Cole at robin@greatertracydems.org.
Your Ideas and Stories Shape Our Work
Have a perspective to share, an event to highlight, or resources neighbors should know about? Send it in and we may feature it next month.
Email: communications@greatertracydems.org or president@greatertracydems.org
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