Democrats of East County 'Unite for Change'

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By Ron Cook

The East County Herald

LA MESA — Local Democrat clubs hosted the East County "Uniting for Change" rally Sunday, Aug. 3 at Harry Griffen Park in La Mesa. Democrats, Independents and disgruntled Republicans were invited to join in the effort to change the political face of East County and the country.

La Mesa City Councilmember Dave Allan was among the local candidates who spoke at the event. He told the crowd of approximately 250 people that he had been a Republican all of his life, but joined the Democratic party this year.

A woman from the crowd yelled, "why did you change parties?" Allan responded, "As a public servant all my life, my years in the Army, fire department, and my eight years on the La Mesa City Council, I feel the government, and many people of my old party have forgotten who they work for. They work for us, and we need to let them know that."

Mike Lumpkin, candidate for the 52nd district congressional seat, also addressed the crowd, calling for teamwork to get the job done in November. When asked about his ability to win in what is perceived as conservative East County, Lumpkin said, "There are far more Democrats out here than most people realize. Over 50 percent of the registered voters in La Mesa are Democrats."

The event was organized by local volunteers led by Linda Armacost and Arlene Howe.

"I started seeing what was happening in this country and what is going to be here for my kids and grandkids. I have to do something, so I can know I at least tried to make a difference for them," said Howe.