The dedication of our super volunteers, like Scott Richardson, inspires all of us at Together We Elect to dig deeper and keep on going.
“It’s pushing back against insanity and misinformation and just outright lies. Pushing back against people who are operating in bad faith. That’s a huge motivator for me.”
Like so many of us volunteers, Concord Mass resident Scott Richardson was not always a political junkie. “I was checked out from politics for most of my adult life. Just wasn’t really involved.” But in 2008, watching charismatic presidential candidate Barack Obama sparked something in Scott, and he’s been knocking on doors, making phone calls, and talking one-on-one to voters ever since.
With the 2022 midterms only a few months away, he’s stepping up the pace, not only making volunteer-to-volunteer calls but organizing and hosting Monday night phone banks. Many activists shy away from phone banks, preferring to text or send postcards. Scott says the key is focusing on how crucial your calls are to the future of our democracy. “What’s at stake has to exceed your reluctance. I can coach you to deal with your reluctance, but if you don’t feel a pressing need to win this election, it’s hard.”
What’s at stake this time around is shocking. “It’s pushing back against insanity and misinformation and just outright lies. Pushing back against people who are operating in bad faith. That’s a huge motivator for me.”
A quarter of a century ago, Scott started a software company, which he just sold. At this point in his life, he’s free to devote his considerable energy to community, environmental, and political work. For him, it’s all about connection, and Together We Elect connects with what’s important. “They’re great people who also care a lot about what’s happening in our society.”
It’s become a well-worn journalistic trope that progressives are pessimistic or depressed about Democrats’ chances this November. For Scott, being part of a community of activists is a perfect way to banish that mood. “The secret to avoiding spiraling downward is just do something. It’s really inspiring, and it makes me much more optimistic. I’d much rather be phoning and engaged in positive conversations with teammates than sitting on my couch worrying about the election.”
“Working in community together — together we elect, right? The together piece is really important for me.”
Inspired by Scott’s story? ACT NOW and help win in November! Talk to an Action Coach who can help guide you to best fit actions or check out Together’s calendar.
