It is no exaggeration to say that we are facing multiple crises – from growing political fascism to environmental catastrophe – impacting nearly every aspect of our lives. There still is time to avoid the worst possible outcomes, but we cannot depend on those individuals who got us into this mess to get us out.

Common sense says that desperate times do not call for business as usual politicians who can only offer more of the same. Instead, they demand brave leaders who have the fortitude, creativity and ability to bring people together in pursuit of worthy goals. That is why I am enthusiastically supporting Melanie D’Arrigo for Congress in the Democratic primary in August.

As an insurgent candidate who has refused corporate donations, Melanie has had to work extra hard to make up for the lack of deep pockets. But by traveling all over the district, knocking on thousands of doors and truly getting to know our concerns, hopes and dreams, Melanie has built a local movement unlike any we have seen in this district in years – if ever. This effort to truly get to know her community has confirmed that people are desperate for a candidate who believes in health care as a human right, protecting reproductive rights, environmental sustainability and a livable planet, higher taxes for those who can afford it, common sense gun control, strong public education and more.

For years, Melanie has been saying that it’s not enough to just elect any Democrat, we must elect better ones. She was the only candidate willing to challenge a sitting member of Congress in a primary because she knew she could do better. She is bold, principled and policy-oriented. She is not a lifetime party insider. Instead, she is a community activist and mom who co-founded a local LGBTQ+ group, understands the injustice of our health care system from having worked in it, and actively supports anyone fighting for progressive values. She knows that people are desperate for new leadership and decided to run for Congress because that is where she can do the most good.

A late August primary is likely to see low turnout, even in a hotly contested election like this one with no incumbent. While every vote always matters, that is especially true now. If you believe that good health, justice and prosperity should not be reserved for a tiny fraction of the powerful elite but instead should be available to each and every one of us, then I urge you to vote for Melanie in the Democratic primary for Congress.

Melanie’s election alone will not end the corruption and disfunction in Washington, DC – the problems are way too large for any one person to solve. At the same time, Melanie alone cannot codify Roe, unrig the Supreme Court, end the filibuster or make Medicare for All a reality. But I am certain that she will always fight with us and for us – showing what is possible when we come together and doing all she can to create a better world for all.

Election Day is Aug. 23, and early in-person voting runs from Aug. 13-21. Please join me in sending Melanie D’Arrigo to Congress.

Michael Mandel
Port Washington