Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Sep. 30, 2020: In a small village, one needs to be careful when discussing politics.  Political opinions are often deeply held, and even a casual comment can offend those of a different conviction.  Although we represent the Democrats in our village, we appreciate there are legitimate views across the political spectrum.  And we welcome a spirited discussion to prioritize our public goals and identify the best policies to achieve them.  

But on the question of this year’s Presidential election, we believe it is clear that common decency and common sense require that Joe Biden be elected the next President of the United States.  Along with tens of millions of other Americans – Democrats, Republicans, and former administration officials alike – we believe President Trump is fundamentally unfit for the office he holds, and that he should be denied the opportunity to serve another four years. 

Therefore, we are rallying our neighbors of the same mind to contribute several hours of their time during the final month of the presidential campaign to help ensure this critical result.  Rather than support Biden’s efforts in New York State (where he is sure to win), we have coordinated with his campaign in Pennsylvania — and have established a program to allow Bronxville residents to work easily (and remotely from their homes) to get out the vote in our neighboring state.   

Pennsylvania is arguably the most critical state on the electoral map, and where the political battle of our lifetime will be fought.  According to the well-regarded polling site FiveThirtyEight, “Pennsylvania is so important [to this election] that our model gives Trump an 84 percent chance of winning the presidency if he carries the state — and it gives Biden a 96 percent chance of winning if Pennsylvania goes blue.”  

Importantly, Pennsylvania has enacted new and often confusing election laws (surrounding mail-in and early voting due to COVID), and thus additional guidance and encouragement is needed to make certain that those who wish to vote are successful.  By making targeted phone calls to Biden supporters within that state – along with thousands of others – we can make a difference. 

We will be providing a one-hour training session (by Zoom) and on-going support for those interested in our remote phone-banking program.  All that our participants need bring is a phone, a computer, and the desire to channel their apprehensions about this election into action.  If you’ve read this far, we sincerely hope you'll join our efforts by signing up at: https://www.mobilize.us/backtobluepa/event/335797/.  Upon receipt of your email, we'll provide you with additional details and include you in this important work.  

Thank you for your consideration.

Andrew Langhoff, District Leader, The Bronxville Democratic Committee

Editor's note:  MyhometownBronxville does not fact-check statements in letters to the editor, and the opinions do not necessarily reflect the thinking of its staff. Its objective in publishing letters to the editor is to give air to diverse thoughts and opinions of residents in the community.