A Message From Our Chair
**Monitoring potential storm Idalia. Stay updated. Monday’s meeting may be canceled depending on developments. Official announcement on Monday, August 28th.**
Dear Pinellas Democrats,
As August concludes, I would like to take a moment to celebrate our accomplishments. This summer, the Pinellas Democrats have been tirelessly dedicated, from grassroots organizing to community outreach and engagement. We’re preparing for the winter return of our Truth & Justice Gala (Sunday, November 5th, save the date!), we hosted Florida Democratic Chair Nikki Fried on her Take Back Florida Tour, and our members are doing some incredible fieldwork. Not to mention our outstanding speaker this month, State Attorney Andrew Warren! Our actions echo our commitment to a brighter, inclusive future. Dive in to explore and make a difference!
Key Issues Updates:
Schools
Florida ranks 48th in teacher pay and is starting the year with around 8,000 teacher and 6,000 support staff vacancies. DeSantis and legislative Republicans non-stop challenges to our schools, introduction of a far-right propaganda and attempting to rewrite history with the approval of the pro-slavery PragerU curriculum only adds fuel to the fire. Please keep an eye on the Pinellas County School Board meetings and lend your support to the board members championing all students and families.
Social Security
For 88 years, Social Security has symbolized our commitment to seniors and families. Rick Scott continues to threaten it, but with nearly 400,000 Pinellas residents depending on it, we’re grateful for President Biden’s commitment to its preservation.
Inflation
Prices in the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater area rose 7.3% in May 2023 compared to the previous year. Federal attempts to stabilize are juxtaposed with Florida’s economic and social policies that challenge our community. We must continue to push for a livable wage and affordable housing in our county and state.
As we move forward, it’s important to cherish the triumphant moments, learn from our challenges, and persist in our shared goals. Together, let’s continue the work, embrace our shared values, and create a better tomorrow for all in Pinellas County, Florida and the United States.
In solidarity,
Jennifer Griffith
Chair, Pinellas County Democratic Party
