Introductions

By ARIELLE REICH

I have to admit that I’ve been what the blogging community calls a “lurker” for quite some time. I read the blogs religiously, but up until now, I never had a username, and I never posted on a website. I am excited to become involved and even more excited to be a part of this particular site. I feel incredibly grateful to Dan Malloy because, unbeknownst to him, he is the reason I am involved in politics today. In May 2006, I joined the Dan Malloy for Governor Campaign as a deputy field director in the 4th CD. I was deeply inspired by what I saw and learned on the campaign trail and was bitten by that proverbial “bug.” I loved every minute of it.

After the Malloy campaign ended in August, I worked for Ned Lamont for Senate, and then decided to switch gears and go back to school to study public health policy at Columbia. It has been important to me to stay closely involved in local politics, and I am even testing the waters with a campaign of my own, running for the Stamford Board of Finance. While my focus is on supporting Mary Lou Rinaldi, the Democratic incumbent, I am honored to be one of the nominees on the ballot this November. I hope that I can help to maintain the Democratic majority on the Board of Finance, and that my involvement can make a positive impact on the political process.

I’ve always believed that local government has the greatest importance. It is easy to get wrapped up in the war debate and the presidential campaign, but when it comes to the things that affect you and your family — whether it is your kids’ school, paying taxes, and the safety of your neighborhood — local politics often have the most immediate effect on our day to day lives. Getting involved in your city is easy and worthwhile. Forums like this allow us all the share opinions, express concerns, and urge legislators to pay attention to what we want brought to forefront of the political process. They are listening, but it is our job to make noise.

At twenty four, I am often told that it is unusual for someone my age to be so focused on local politics and go as far as running for office. Headquarters are often filled with middle aged and older volunteers, and the occasional teenager. However, I feel so strongly that it is time for my generation to step up and fill in the gap. We all lead busy lives, but it is important to make the effort and pay attention to what really matters. Not only should be working every election cycle to help elect responsible leaders, but even without a campaign going on, to stay involved and stay informed. This brand new forum is an excellent way to share discourse and ideas, and I feel privileged and delighted to be a part of it.