A timely letter from Sam Hodge -- Chair, Columbia County Democrats -- November 6, 2024:

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When I went to bed in the early morning hours, it felt like blunt force trauma. I was stunned and consumed by disbelief. I felt a moral disorientation. How could this happen? More than a quarter of my life has been dominated by this corrupt, narcissistic, bigoted, would-be-fascist, and the reprieve we so earnestly needed is not coming. I woke to an uncommon stillness, outside a light breeze and rustling leaves and a profound sense of grief.

 

We are not going to be okay. Our values as a people and as a democracy are being tested. Our country is in crisis. The following weeks, months, and years will be incredibly hard, and many will suffer. Grief does not go away, but it can be managed. The anguish we feel today can and will be a reminder of what we hope for, care about, fight for, and must do for ourselves and future generations. We feel this way today because we love our neighbors and our country. 

 

He can’t take that away from us.

 

We’re a small county that consistently punches above its weight. Last night was no different. Josh Riley will be our next Congressman. In 2022, Riley bested Molinaro in Columbia County by 2,776 votes. This year, Riley beat him by 3,979. Riley won this race with a margin of 3,678. 

 

Columbia County’s efforts were the difference. 

 

Our work may dictate whether they have complete control of the government or whether there is a vigorous check on their power. This bright spot in an otherwise bleak evening must be celebrated. It’s proof that what we’re doing is meaningful; what we’re doing is consequential.

 

Grief and hope are not mutually exclusive. Loss can serve as a reminder of what’s important, what’s worth fighting for.  Hope is the light that can guide us forward. 

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With much gratitude,

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Sam Hodge

Chair, Columbia County Democrats.