There is a certain romance to pounding the pavement in coastal Connecticut. No, not the swooning-under-the-full-moon sort. Think more wind-tousled hair, the smell of autumn leaves, and the thrill of never quite knowing whether the next door will open to a friendly smile, a political debate, or a passionate breakdown of the New England Patriots offensive line (a topic with nearly as many opinions as there are leaves on East Pattagansett Road right now).

Board of Selectmen candidate Jason Deeble (right) with Board of Education candidate Vivek Purohit, out on the trail.

Over these past weeks, East Lyme Democrats have racked up more steps than a big city tour guide in summer. From McCook Point to Rocky Neck Park to Darrow Pond and every cul-de-sac in between, we have knocked, smiled, waved, tucked literature into storm doors like delicate political valentines, and had the kinds of conversations that remind us why local democracy matters.

Some voters fling open the door like we are long-lost cousins and immediately dive into the importance of Democratic majorities on the Board of Selectmen, the Board of Finance, and the Board of Education. Others want to talk about the national picture, sharing their worries and hopes and gratitude that our town's leadership has been calm, competent, and determined to protect democratic norms.

Zoning Commission candidates Cathy Yucas (left) and Kerry Edwards, on the trail.

Many simply nod, grin, and tell us: You have our vote. Tell Dan we’re rooting for him. Tell Ann and Jason and Cindy to keep going, we got their backs. And, happily, every once in a while, someone leans in with a specific local concern -- a road, a program, a school issue -- trusting us to carry it forward. That trust is earned only through showing up, election season or not.

Has every knock been perfect? No, of course not!

But even the politely brisk goodbyes and the I-just-put-the-dog-away-but-she's-still-thinking-about-eating-you moments are reminders that democracy, in its most human form, requires presence. It requires conversation. And yes, occasionally, it requires knowing just enough about the 2025 Patriots, with Drake May at the helm are doing, and to nod thoughtfully.

Rain? Wind? No problem! Brian Alpert (left) and Jill Carini take a break from the weather while out on the trail.

To everyone who has opened a door, offered encouragement, raised an issue, or simply smiled and waved through the window -- thank you. And to our canvassers who have braved chilly mornings, friendly porches, and the occasional surprise staircase: well done!

Election Day is Tuesday, November 4—we’re almost there!

We have worked hard. We are optimistic, not complacent. And we are proud -- proud of our candidates, proud of our volunteers, and proud of the civic spirit that thrives in East Lyme and Niantic.

Jason Deeble (left) makes a new friend, out on the trail.

Let’s bring this home. Keep knocking, keep connecting, and let’s finish strong for our community. Then, when the dust settles, we will keep doing what we do best: listening, learning, and staying present for our neighbors.

Onward.