Many in Newton, like Americans across the country, are asking what they can do to shore up democracy. Our answer at the League of Women Voters, Newton is, “Don’t just stand there, run!”  For elective office, that is.

In Newton we need good, caring, smart candidates for fall 2025 elections to City Council, School Committee, and Mayor.  Healthy democracy requires candidates who are willing to run a race, despite the risk that they may lose. In uncontested elections, voters do not get to weigh the views of candidates and choose the one with the best ideas, experience, and character. For those considering a run for office, the Newton League’s website, https://lwvnewton.org/ contains materials to help launch a campaign.

National government and the institutions that comprise it matter–a lot. But democracy is government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Democracy starts with us, and it flourishes or withers at the roots, the local level.

We will continue to write and call our national elected leaders, demonstrate and march, and contribute to causes we care about.

But if you really want to plant democracy with firm roots, don’t just stand there–run!

Frieda Dweck & Jane Harper
Co-Presidents, League of Women Voters, Newton