“This is not a time to throw up our hands. This is a time to roll up our sleeves. This is a time to organize, to mobilize, and to stay engaged for the sake of freedom and justice and the future that we all know we can build together.”
—Vice President Kamala Harris
The 2024 election did not turn out the way we had hoped, and like many of you, I am deeply disappointed by the outcome. We didn’t get the results we worked so hard for, but as Vice President Kamala Harris said in her concession speech: "This is a time to roll up our sleeves…to organize, to mobilize, and to stay engaged for the sake of freedom and justice and the future that we all know we can build together."
There is no question that the road ahead will be difficult. With Donald Trump returning to the White House and the Republican Party regaining control of the Senate, there will be serious challenges ahead. The consequences will be felt across issues like women’s rights, reproductive freedom, racial justice, LGBTQ+ equality, criminal justice, healthcare, environmental protection, education funding, and more. So now is definitely not the time to step back. We must remain committed to fighting, resisting, and pushing forward, no matter what comes our way.
And, we can take heart in the victories we did win. Here in Maryland, we elected a phenomenal U.S. Senator, Angela Alsobrooks, and voters overwhelmingly passed Question 1, securing reproductive freedom in our state constitution. Maryland voters also elected Sarah Elfreth, Johnny Olszewski, and reelected Jamie Raskin, Steny Hoyer, Glenn Ivey, Kweisi Mfume to the U.S. Congress. While we’re still waiting for the final results of the CD-6 race, I am optimistic that that April McClain Delaney will win that seat. Each of these victories show that our efforts are not in vain.
I am incredibly proud of the work WDC members did—collectively and individually—to ensure these important victories in this election cycle. It’s an honor to lead this wonderful organization of vibrant, energetic and dedicated volunteers. With help from all of you, we will continue to stand strong, focused and united to support each other, and to keep fighting for a better future.
As we move forward, Democrats will need to reflect what went wrong and to strategize on the path ahead. To help us start that process, WDC will hold a Happy Hour with a Purpose with Fred Yang to unpack the 2024 elections. Mr. Yang, a talented national political pollster and analyst, will share his insights on the results of the November 5 elections on December 4th at 6:30 pm at Cantina Tacombi in Bethesda. Space is limited, so please register soon to secure your spot.
On December 15th, we invite you to join us for the WDC Holiday Party for members, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm in Potomac. We’ll share the address a few days before the event. This gathering will give us a chance to reconnect, reflect, and hear from elected officials and community leaders about what 2025 and beyond will look like. This will be an all-member event, but we welcome new members, so please share this information with your family and friends. More details to come.
Finally, over the next couple months, we will be gearing up for Maryland’s 2025 legislative session. WDC will continue to focus on our vital work at the state level, where our advocacy will be more important than ever. Now is the time for us to stand together, support one another, and keep pushing for the future we know is possible.
I know things feel tough right now, but let's not give up. Together, we will rise, we will fight, and we will keep moving toward the world we know we all deserve.
Stay Strong. Stay Focused. Stay United.
Tazeen Ahmad, President