As summer temperatures continue to rise, Democrats across the state are turning up the heat on Republicans who want to wreck our state. Congressman Kasich, the Wall Street insider whose radical tax plans would bankrupt Ohio, is being exposed as disconnected and unrealistic.

Meanwhile, Ohioans are learning the truth about Rob Portman’s record of sending Ohioans’ jobs overseas.

In this month’s newsletter, you’ll hear from state House candidate and Young Dem Lou Gentile about his primary victory and his general election bid. Also, Ohio Treasurer Kevin Boyce talks about the importance of Young Dems being involved this year. Plus, you’ll get all the info on YDA’s regional and national conferences, as well as OYD’s summer meeting. Lastly, you’ll get an update on how you can participate in the Ohio Democratic Party’s unprecedented coordinated campaign.

We need your help to make sure Dems cross the finish line and claim victory in November.

Sincerely,
Ohio Young Democrats

In this edition:
YDA to Host National Conference
Gentile Victorious, Looking to November
Boyce on Importance of Youth Involvement
OYD Searches for Summer Meeting Host
Update on ODP Coordinated Campaign

YDA to Host National Conference

The Young Democrats of America will host their summer national meeting from July 16-18 in Washington, D.C. Elections for President, DNC Man and DNC Woman will be held, as well as training programs and other activities. Click here to visit the YDA site.

For information on carpooling and hotel rates, as well as to confirm attendance, please contact OYD President Amy Groya at amygroya@gmail.com.

Gentile Victorious, Looking to November
With strong labor support and the backing of Governor Strickland, Young Dem Lou Gentile emerged victorious in May’s primary to capture the Democratic nomination in eastern Ohio’s 95th house district. OYD spoke with Gentile after his victory.

1.What inspired you to run?

I have always had a deep interest in public service.  My parents are retired public servants and they taught me at a young age that I had a responsibility to help others and contribute to my community.  My experience working for great people like Ohio Governor Ted Strickland also inspired me to seek public office.  It was Governor Strickland who showed me that public service is honorable when it is about others and not yourself.

2.What role should Young Democrats play in this year’s election?
Young Democrats will be critical to the success of our Party in the upcoming elections.  Young Democrats have always been on the front lines of every major election year, supporting our candidates with voter contact and get out the vote activities and helping to mobilize young people to vote.  Young Democrats can have a huge impact on the outcome of this year’s election and I would strongly encourage any young person to get involved and volunteer or work full time as a campaign staffer if the opportunity presents itself.

3.What is most challenging about being a young candidate?
There are many opportunities for young candidates in today’s political climate.  Voters in rural districts with an older electorate are favoring younger candidates for public office.  Voters have an appreciation for young candidates who take a serious interest in public service and who can demonstrate that they are hard working and willing to listen.

4.What has been the best part of campaigning?
Having the opportunity to spend time with so many good, hardworking and dedicated people who live in eastern Ohio.  I am very humbled to know that so many people have confidence in my ability to be their voice in Columbus.  I am very proud to have a support system made up of so many good people from all walks of life.

5.What experience has helped you prepare for the campaign?
I have been very fortunate to have had so many good experiences working on political campaigns and in state and federal government.  Volunteering and working as a paid staffer is a great way to learn about running for public office.  I would strongly encourage any young person who is thinking about a career in public service to work on a political campaign and then for an office holder.  I truly believe that working on a campaign can prepare a person for a successful career in public service or in the private sector.  I am very grateful for the opportunities I have had working for political leaders, especially Governor Ted Strickland.   Working hard and being willing to start at the very bottom and work your way up is a formula for success in Democratic politics.  If you are willing to pay your dues and be a team player other leaders will take notice and you will be given a chance to take on a leadership role when the time is right.

Boyce on Importance of Youth Involvement
No stranger to youth politics himself, Ohio Treasurer Kevin Boyce has actively engaged the youth vote in his bid for reelection this year. As one of the state’s top officeholders, Boyce encourages Young Dems to become active in this year’s crucial races. Below is a Q&A with Boyce.

1.How did you first get into politics?
I’ve always wanted to make a difference in my community. When I was a student at the University of Toledo, I was fortunate to take a class taught by former Toledo Mayor Jack Ford.  It was in that class that I began to understand my strengths and to use them as a public servant. As an aide in the Ohio House of Representatives, I realized that I was making a difference, but knew I could effect greater change as an elected official.  Public service has been my passion for as long as I can remember, and I’m very fortunate to have had so many wonderful opportunities to stand up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

2.What role should OYD play in Ohio in 2010?
As one of the largest and most active statewide young Democrat organizations in the nation, you play a significant role in 2010.  By using your resources, your networks, and your contacts, you can ensure a victory for all Democrats this November.

3.Why is this election so important?
This is a landmark election for a couple of reasons.  Of course, the apportionment board seats that we have already heard about and the redistricting that takes place every ten years in our state; but secondly we have the opportunity to make history.  I would be the very first African American Democrat to hold elected office in the history of the State of Ohio.

4.What steps can young people take to make a difference this year?
History has shown us that midterm elections don’t draw the largest numbers of voters.  One of the biggest things young people can do is to simply get out to the polls and vote.  Additionally though, I encourage young people to just get involved.  If politics is your passion, then you should feed that passion by engaging in the excitement that is brewing across the state.  As a volunteer, paid staff or intern, campaigns are always looking for another set of hands to do some important work around Ohio.

OYD Searches for Summer Meeting Host

OYD is currently accepting bids for local chapters to host the organization’s summer meeting in late July or early August. Chapters that are canvassing for local candidates and/or who have candidates among their membership are encouraged to apply. For more information, or to submit a bid, contact OYD President Amy Groya at amygroya@gmail.com.

Update on ODP Coordinated Campaign

OYD President Amy Groya and ODP Next Gen Dems’ Director Scott Surovjak will host a conference call on Wednesday, June 30 at 9 p.m. to discuss youth involvement in the Ohio Democratic Party’s 2010 coordinated campaign effort. Participants can join the call by dialing 760.569.9000 and entering code 530991#.

The first of its kind, ODP’s coordinated campaign is focused on State House races, Apportionment Board and statewide seats, statewide races and the United States Senate race. Every Young Dem across the state can easily make a difference in many ways. This call is the perfect chance to get involved!