Democratic Fundraiser, Q1, 2026 - NetRoots Nation

[Vesica]

All Submissions for NetRoots go here. Due by 11:59pm EST, December 6th, 2024

[Blake]

 

DNC Chair Charlotte O'Hare Speech to Netroots Nation 2026 in Honolulu Hawaii

Good evening! It is always a wonderful opportunity to speak before Netroots Nation! This time I did not even have to travel extremely far. Laughs The ferry ride from the Big Island is certainly shorter than the plane trip to Washington. You might not know a lot about me other than my name and title.

However, what you might not know after I finished at the University of Hawai'i and later the University of Washington, I taught third grade students for about six years, including during the Pandemic. Which required some quick adapting. Laughs. I can tell you it was not easy to keep third graders focused on the lessons in front of a computer screen, but we made it work the best we could. It was a particularly difficult time to be an educator. Though when is there ever an easy time? 

I remember prior to the pandemic a lot of my colleagues were talking about leaving the profession. A combination of lack of support from administration, low pay, and needing to pay off their student loans. Since the pandemic it has only gotten worse, in a lot of places students are behind from the pandemic years and we need to be supporting public education now more than ever. 

I'm not just saying that as someone who has been on the ground level teaching, but as a parent. My daughters are always going to attend public schools. Because I stand by my commitment to improve our public schools to give all our children the best possible education. And my opposition to taking funds meant for our public schools and pushing them into the hands of corporations through charter schools, or private schools for the wealthy in school vouchers. 

Our focus as policy makers should be complete dedication to making the public education system truly be the silver bullet. 

For too long the Federal Government has let public schools fall behind. We have allowed certain politicians to convince us instead of listening to teachers on how to improve education. That we should be listening to test scores, that companies and rich people know how to improve our kids' education better than their teachers. We have allowed reactionaries to put our teachers in their crosshairs and go after them for teaching history and science. We have to put an end to that. The Democratic Party will return to our roots of listening to teachers on how to improve public schools. Already the fresh faces of the Democratic Party are former teachers. 

We've House Democrats take the lead on passing a couple of bills dedicated to closing the technology gap. One which was focused on helping underfunded schools and another on helping left behind rural communities. They have also taken the lead in the nationwide fight for universal school lunch!

While in the Senate we have seen a bit less success we are preparing for the larger fight on education for when we take back the majority. I have sponsored no less than four additional bills to expand and improve education. From Universal Pre-K to help give our students an improved head start, to expanding history standards to help teach often forgotten history like that of these beautiful islands! I am also the primary sponsor of the Pell Grant Preservation and Expansion Act which would double the maximum Pell grant award and index it to inflation. 

But those are just the start. I have cosponsored and helped write a bill with my good friend Senator Donnelly of New York. The Comprehensive Support for Students Act which does several necessary things, including raising teacher pay, free public university, student loan forgiveness, comprehensive curriculum reform to help rescue departments like art which have been a constant target for budget cuts around the nation, support for low-income schools, and programs for at risk youth. This bill is a great baseline for the things we need to do to improve not just public schools but to promote education across our beautiful nation. 

When we have the debate about teacher pay, I think a lot of people do not really appreciate how underpaid teachers are. The average starting salary for a teacher is about forty-five thousand dollars. With the average starting salary for the rest of the class of 2024 being seventy thousand dollars just for those who have bachelor's degrees. Pay is one of the biggest reasons that some of the best teachers are leaving the field. It is time that we pay teachers like we truly value the work they do for our children! 

Teacher pay must be a part of the debate over improving public education; because to have a world-class public education system we need world-class teachers, and we need to be able to keep the best teachers in the profession! That means paying teachers similar salaries to what their education level earns in the private sector. We have to have this debate in all fifty states and in Washington! I can promise you I will be meeting with Democratic Governors in the coming months to make a push to raise teacher pay in as many states as possible! 

We have seen a lot of success at pushing for state level policies over the last year! We have seen the single largest growth in Universal School meals in a long time with Illinois, New Jersey, Connecticut, Washington, Oregon, Hawaii, and Rhode Island finally joining in the states that offer free school lunch. That is only the beginning, every child deserves to have a warm, healthy lunch. The evidence shows that simply doing that can have massive improvement on the education a child receives. It is a bipartisan proposal; it got over three hundred votes in the house. It only remains controversial with one of the richest men in Washington in the former Senate Majority Leader and in a former charter school executive in the current Senate Majority Leader. 

I find it sad that not only is twenty-five billion dollars a controversial amount to give public schools in need but that it would have been the largest single package for public schools in United States History. According to the Century foundation nationwide we are underfunding our schools over one-hundred and fifty billion dollars annually. We have got to start now, we'll fight in Washington, and in all fifty states. We must give all our children the world-class education they deserve and that cannot happen while we are letting our schools go massively underfunded. 

As we prepare for the midterms, we must organize to win control of more state legislatures and governors so that we can not only stop the tide of Republican budget cuts for Education, but so that we can address the funding gap, raise teacher pay, improve standards, and expand universal school meals. Which we will not be able to do without your support today. As you hear from the rest of the speakers at this event remember at every level of government, we are focused on pushing progressive priorities, whereas the Republicans are focused on taking us back. Help us prepare for the midterms and defeat the reactionary, maga agenda of the Republican Party.

[Storm]

Senator Osiris Storm (D-NY)

 

Aloha, friends and allies,

I am Senator Osiris Storm of NY and the proud chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus!

It is a privilege to stand here in Hawaii, a state that embodies resilience and community, as we gather for the Netroots conference to envision and advance a brighter future. Together, we have achieved remarkable victories, but our journey is far from over. Today, I want to share a roadmap for the future—a vision rooted in progress, equity, and innovation.

First, let us celebrate a monumental win for workers: raising the minimum wage to $14 an hour and tying it to inflation. This policy ensures that hardworking Americans are not left behind as the cost of living rises. And honestly, it’s about time we made sure payday feels more like a reward and less like a cruel joke. But we know that a living wage is just the beginning. Our commitment to economic justice must extend further.

We expanded the child tax credit and earned income tax credit, lifting millions of families out of poverty and putting money directly into the pockets of those who need it most. By closing tax haven loopholes, we’ve taken a bold step toward tax fairness, ensuring the wealthiest among us pay their fair share. Because, let’s face it, the ultra-wealthy have been playing Monopoly while the rest of us are stuck on "pay $200 in taxes every time you pass go."

However, our work is not done. We must continue to make strides toward workforce democracy — an economic system that prioritizes unions, enforces fair labor laws, empowers small businesses, and ensures opportunity for every American. Expanding union rights and passing the PRO Act are essential steps to achieving this vision. When workers thrive, our nation thrives. After all, isn’t it about time we gave workers the same job security as your favorite streaming service has sequels?

We will also fight relentlessly to pass the right to repair, empowering consumers and reducing waste. It’s 2024—why does fixing your phone feel like cracking the Da Vinci Code? And we will tackle the housing crisis head-on by eliminating algorithmic pricing in the housing market, repealing the Faircloth Amendment, and creating truly affordable housing options. Together, we can expand homeownership opportunities and ensure housing is a human right, not a commodity. Because no one should have to choose between paying rent and buying groceries—or worse, paying rent and buying coffee. Let’s keep our priorities straight, people!

Additionally, we are committed to expanding Medicaid and Medicare and making universal healthcare a reality. Healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. By ensuring every American has access to affordable, high-quality care, we can build a healthier, more equitable society. Imagine a world where going to the doctor doesn’t feel like signing up for a second mortgage. That’s the future we’re fighting for.

We also need to invest in education. Let’s eliminate student debt, expand access to tuition-free community college, and ensure every child has access to quality early childhood education. Knowledge is power, and empowering our future generations is the key to sustaining our democracy and economy.

But our work doesn’t end there. We face an existential threat—the crisis of climate change. Our very existence depends on how swiftly and decisively we act. Together, we can:

Expand renewable and green energy sources.

Build resilient infrastructure to withstand climate disasters.

Partner with international allies to hold corporate polluters accountable.

The time for half-measures has passed. We must lead the charge against climate change with bold, transformative action. Let’s make sure our grandkids inherit a planet that thrives, not just survives.

Finally, we must break up monopolies that stifle innovation and crush competition. A true free economy prioritizes the rights and needs of workers and small businesses over unchecked corporate power. Because if we wanted one company to control everything, we’d just rename Earth "Monopoly Planet" and call it a day.

Friends, the challenges before us are immense, but so is our resolve. Together, we can build a future that is fair, sustainable, and filled with opportunity. Let us march forward—undaunted and united—to create a nation that truly lives up to its promise for all. And if we stumble along the way, well, we’ll just call it "character building" and keep moving forward.

Mahalo, and let’s get to work!

[Alaskansockeyepuffs]

HTK's 2026 Netroots Speech
 

Aloha, Netroots!

It’s so good to be here with you in my home state of Hawai’i. I can’t tell you how much it means to stand before all of you, the backbone of the progressive movement, in a place that shaped my values, my fight, and my hope. Hawaii has been the focal point of the progressive movement, spearheaded by the likes of my good friend Senator O'Hare, (who let me say is doing a hell of a job as DNC Chair), along with Governor Green, and so many others. It is really an inspiration to see Hawaii lead the nation for the better.

Two years ago, I stood on the biggest stage of my life. I fought with every fiber of my being to bring progressive values to the White House, and I came up short. Losing is not something I am accustomed to. But let me tell you, no campaign trail prepares you for what happens the day after you don’t win.

I want to share something personal. On election night in 2024, I sat on the couch with my two daughters, watching the results roll in. As the map slowly turned against us, I knew I would have to look into their eyes and explain what it meant to lose, and not just for me, but for all of us who poured our hearts into that campaign. It was heartbreaking. It was humbling. And I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t uncomfortable to admit to all of you here tonight that I failed in my goal.

The days that followed, I didn't know how to feel, to come so close to becoming a major part in American history, it is a feeling, that I would honestly wish on anybody. I kept wondering "why did this happen", I questioned my beliefs, my career, my philosophy. I however realized that in this time, I needed to turn to those who had been in my exact shoes. I read Walter Mondale's book, a man who was frankly ahead of his time. I looked at those who didn't make it, and realized that they didn't quit because the going gets tough.

Behind the scenes, as the person who didn’t win, yes there were moments of doubt, yes there were moments of grief. Because no one likes to fail, right? Society teaches us to revile failure, to run from it, to hide it away. That is the easy thing to do quite frankly, to hide away from failure. But here’s the thing: I’ve learned to embrace it.

Failure isn’t the end. It’s the beginning. It’s where you find your grit. It’s where you grow.

And while the Republican Party celebrated that night, popping champagne and declaring the death of the progressive movement, they made one critical mistake: they underestimated us. They thought that because I didn’t win, our values didn’t win. That our vision for this country would simply fizzle out.

*pauses for dramatic effect*

Oh, how wrong they were. *laughs*

In the year and change, since that election, progressives have thrived. Across the country, we’ve pushed forward universal school lunch programs to ensure that no child goes hungry not just in Hawaiʻi but in states from coast to coast. And when Republicans in Congress shot down a national effort, they showed the world what we already knew: they’d rather see children starve than support a progressive idea.

We’ve led the fight to raise the minimum wage, expand union rights, and protect working- and middle-class families. We’ve made strides on climate action and healthcare, even while the current administration governs through executive orders because they’ve lost the trust of the people.

Think about that for a moment. The President, who campaigned on bold Republican promises, is now boxed in, reduced to pushing E-Verify and other policies through executive action, bypassing even his own party. We have them on the ropes. It’s not us who are on the back foot, it’s them. And let me tell you, it feels good. For too long, they’ve tried to keep us on the backfoot. But now? The tide has turned. The energy is with us.

And why? Because we’ve proven that our ideas are not just popular but necessary.

This is why I won’t give up. This is why I’ll keep fighting not for me, this was never about me, but for the values we share. For a country that prioritizes its people over profits. For a country that stands for justice, equality, and opportunity for all. I am fighting for you!

I know the road ahead won’t be easy. We’ll face challenges, just like we always have. But remember this: Challenges don’t break us they shape us. And they’ve shaped me into someone who’s more determined than ever to keep pushing forward.

I have faced challenges, I have faced what many considered my political "death sentence", and yet here I stand unshaken, determined, and I will continue to fly in the face of my doubters, these same doubters have belittled me, have called me a "loser" more times than I can count. They have spun that I am somehow bitter and a sore loser. What they do not realize however is that.  I am not the same person that I was in 2024, I have changed, for the better! This movement has  also changed, and I would like to think for the better, we have grown, we have adapted and we have succeeded in ways we have never seen before! We are stronger and more prominent than at any point in recent history, and we have done it though grit and unrelenting determination.

The Republicans however have not learned anything from their Trump era disasters, they continue to peddle extreme partisanship, they continue to try and divide, to push failed policies on everyone, and they continue to push us backwards, while lying to American people.

So tonight, I stand here, not as someone defined by the loss of 2024, but as someone renewed by it. Challenges don’t define us they refine us. Every setback I’ve faced has made me better, stronger, and more resolved. I am here to tell you that the progressive movement is not dead. It’s alive, it’s thriving, and it’s leading the charge.

We’re fighting for a country where every child has enough to eat. Where every worker earns a fair wage. Where every community, whether in a rural town or an urban center, has access to healthcare, housing, and opportunity.

Now, I’m not just asking you to believe in this movement. I’m asking you to invest in it. We have shown time and time again that we are consistent, we are effective, and with the midterms coming up, if we can take back control of the Senate, our opportunities, and possibilities are endless. Ask yourselves, do you want more deadlock and ineffectiveness in the Senate under Majority Leaders, Koenig and Duplantis? Or do you want effective leadership once again? To the Republicans calling me a "sore loser" or crazy I say this, keep up with your games, because frankly, we don't have time for your political smoke and mirror shows, we have work to do, and we are doing it!

The battles ahead will be tough, not doubt about it! The Republicans would love nothing more than for us to give up, to stop fighting, to stop organizing. This movement is growing, and energized, we have done alot, but there is more that needs to be done.

Now, let’s take this energy, this passion, and let’s show them what we can really do. Let’s expand our majorities. Let’s turn more states blue. Let's go to new horizons, targeting states that the GOP think have in the bag. Let's fight for the middle and working classes, by making their lives better. Let’s fight for the America we know is possible.

Thank you, Netroots. Let’s rise together. Mahalo nui loa!

[jakeakins]

Good evening, everyone.

It is great to be here alongside my colleagues in this stunning state of Hawaii. There is truly no place like it. Thank you, Senators O’Hare and Kahoina, for hosting us and allowing us to—how should I say—invade your state. I promise we will try to leave it just as beautiful as we found it.

My name is Dr. Chandler Williams, and I have the great honor of serving the Beaver State in the U.S. Senate. Oregon has been my home for my entire life, and I’ve dedicated much of that life to understanding and sharing history. I spent nearly 40 years as a historian working in museums, preserving stories of the past and connecting them to the present. I also served as an associate professor of History at the University of Oregon and still enjoy returning as a guest lecturer when my schedule allows.

It’s always a privilege to stand in places rich with history, and Hawaii is no exception. But while history is important, tonight I want to talk about what’s happening now—what we are doing, or perhaps failing to do, in Congress.

I first want to thank our Leader Coleman for his steady guidance during this turbulent session. Let’s be honest: this Congress, like too many others in recent years, has faced challenges with partisanship and dysfunction. It has been, in many ways, unproductive. But despite the gridlock, there have been some bright spots, and I believe it’s important to highlight those moments of progress.

One such moment is the passage of the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2024. This bill, while modest on its surface, represents a profound commitment to the men and women who have worn the uniform. It ensures that their benefits keep pace with the rising cost of living, a small but essential way of saying, “We have not forgotten you.” As someone who has met with countless veterans in my state, I know how much this means to them. For many, it’s the difference between stability and hardship.

Another achievement this session is the Post-9/11 Veterans’ Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2024. This legislation recognizes a critical and often overlooked issue—the mental health struggles faced by those returning from service. For too long, we have asked our veterans to fight battles abroad and then left them to fight battles within themselves, often with little support. This bill provides much-needed resources for mental health care, helping veterans transition back into civilian life with the dignity and care they deserve.

Closer to home, I am particularly proud of the Increasing Access to Mental Health in Schools Act. Our children are facing a mental health crisis, with rates of anxiety, depression, and other challenges at all-time highs. This legislation invests in mental health professionals and services within our schools, ensuring that help is available where kids spend most of their time. When we prioritize the mental well-being of our young people, we are not just addressing immediate needs—we are investing in their future and the future of this country.

Housing, too, has seen progress. The LIFT Homebuyers Act of 2024 and the Small Public Housing Agency Opportunity Act of 2024 are critical steps in tackling the housing crisis. The LIFT Homebuyers Act makes homeownership more attainable for first-time buyers, helping families build stability and wealth. Meanwhile, the Small Public Housing Agency Opportunity Act gives smaller housing agencies the tools and flexibility they need to address local needs more effectively. Both of these laws remind us that government can and should work to lift people up, providing them with the foundation to succeed.

These achievements prove that when we focus on the issues that truly matter, we can make a real difference. However, not all legislation this session has reflected those values.

The so-called Education Transparency and Parental Rights Act is a stark example of what happens when misguided priorities take center stage. This bill, while marketed as a tool for empowering parents, does far more harm than good. It introduces unnecessary bureaucracy into our schools and places undue pressure on educators already stretched thin. Instead of fostering trust and collaboration between parents and teachers, it breeds division and distrust.

Let me be clear: transparency in education is important. Parents should be involved in their children’s education. But this bill is not about transparency; it is about control. It opens the door to micromanagement and censorship, undermining the professional judgment of teachers and the integrity of the classroom. It sends a chilling message to educators that their expertise and dedication are not valued, at a time when we are already facing a teacher shortage across the nation.

The consequences for students are even more troubling. This bill distracts from real issues—like underfunded schools, overcrowded classrooms, and outdated materials—that directly affect students’ ability to learn. Instead of giving our children the resources they need to succeed, it creates barriers. At a time when we should be focused on building a robust, inclusive education system, this legislation takes us backward.

I cannot stress enough how damaging this approach is, not just to our schools but to the very fabric of our communities. Education is the great equalizer, the foundation of opportunity and progress. When we politicize it, when we turn it into a battleground, we fail our children, our teachers, and our future.

Despite these challenges, I remain hopeful. The successes we’ve seen this session—on veterans’ care, mental health, and housing—show that progress is possible when we work together. They remind us of what government can achieve when we focus on the common good.

But hope alone is not enough. It requires action. It requires us, as lawmakers, to put aside petty politics and partisanship and focus on what truly matters: the well-being of the people we serve. It requires all of us—elected officials, educators, parents, and citizens—to stand up for the values we believe in and to hold our leaders accountable.

Hawaii, with its rich history and spirit of unity, serves as a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together. Let us take that spirit back to Washington and use it to guide us in the months and years ahead.

Thank you.

[camilodeso]

excerpt from speech

 

“Democrats have proven that we are ready to lead. From education to the economy, to responding to the urgent needs of Americans impacted by Winter Storm Arya, Democrats have consistently led the way. And we didn’t lead for the sake of credit or accolades; we led because it’s our duty to uplift America and the American people. We stepped forward not for selfish gains or partisan triumphs, but because the people demanded action, and we answered their call.

And let me be clear: we didn’t achieve these victories through executive orders or shortcuts. We did it by rolling up our sleeves, bridging divides, and collaborating across the aisle. We fought for real solutions, for meaningful change, and for the lives of the people we serve. These aren’t just Democratic achievements, they are victories for every family, every community, and every corner of this country.  

But the work is far from over. If we are to keep fighting for the soul and security of this nation, we need you, Netroots. We need your voices, your passion, your power. Together, we can take back the People’s Senate for the people, not for selfishness, not for party, but for country.

This is about ensuring our democracy works for everyone, not just the privileged few. It’s about resisting division and inequality, and winning a brighter future for all Americans. Netroots, we’ve resisted before, and we’ve won before. And with your energy, your determination, and your commitment, we will resist again, and we will win again. Let’s fight for the People’s Senate. Let’s fight for our future. Together, we will not just make a difference, we will make history! Let's take back the Senate this year and the White House in 2028 TOGETHER!”

[Vesica]

On 12/6/2024 at 8:35 PM, Blake said:

 

DNC Chair Charlotte O'Hare Speech to Netroots Nation 2026 in Honolulu Hawaii

Good evening! It is always a wonderful opportunity to speak before Netroots Nation! This time I did not even have to travel extremely far. Laughs The ferry ride from the Big Island is certainly shorter than the plane trip to Washington. You might not know a lot about me other than my name and title.

However, what you might not know after I finished at the University of Hawai'i and later the University of Washington, I taught third grade students for about six years, including during the Pandemic. Which required some quick adapting. Laughs. I can tell you it was not easy to keep third graders focused on the lessons in front of a computer screen, but we made it work the best we could. It was a particularly difficult time to be an educator. Though when is there ever an easy time? 

I remember prior to the pandemic a lot of my colleagues were talking about leaving the profession. A combination of lack of support from administration, low pay, and needing to pay off their student loans. Since the pandemic it has only gotten worse, in a lot of places students are behind from the pandemic years and we need to be supporting public education now more than ever. 

I'm not just saying that as someone who has been on the ground level teaching, but as a parent. My daughters are always going to attend public schools. Because I stand by my commitment to improve our public schools to give all our children the best possible education. And my opposition to taking funds meant for our public schools and pushing them into the hands of corporations through charter schools, or private schools for the wealthy in school vouchers. 

Our focus as policy makers should be complete dedication to making the public education system truly be the silver bullet. 

For too long the Federal Government has let public schools fall behind. We have allowed certain politicians to convince us instead of listening to teachers on how to improve education. That we should be listening to test scores, that companies and rich people know how to improve our kids' education better than their teachers. We have allowed reactionaries to put our teachers in their crosshairs and go after them for teaching history and science. We have to put an end to that. The Democratic Party will return to our roots of listening to teachers on how to improve public schools. Already the fresh faces of the Democratic Party are former teachers. 

We've House Democrats take the lead on passing a couple of bills dedicated to closing the technology gap. One which was focused on helping underfunded schools and another on helping left behind rural communities. They have also taken the lead in the nationwide fight for universal school lunch!

While in the Senate we have seen a bit less success we are preparing for the larger fight on education for when we take back the majority. I have sponsored no less than four additional bills to expand and improve education. From Universal Pre-K to help give our students an improved head start, to expanding history standards to help teach often forgotten history like that of these beautiful islands! I am also the primary sponsor of the Pell Grant Preservation and Expansion Act which would double the maximum Pell grant award and index it to inflation. 

But those are just the start. I have cosponsored and helped write a bill with my good friend Senator Donnelly of New York. The Comprehensive Support for Students Act which does several necessary things, including raising teacher pay, free public university, student loan forgiveness, comprehensive curriculum reform to help rescue departments like art which have been a constant target for budget cuts around the nation, support for low-income schools, and programs for at risk youth. This bill is a great baseline for the things we need to do to improve not just public schools but to promote education across our beautiful nation. 

When we have the debate about teacher pay, I think a lot of people do not really appreciate how underpaid teachers are. The average starting salary for a teacher is about forty-five thousand dollars. With the average starting salary for the rest of the class of 2024 being seventy thousand dollars just for those who have bachelor's degrees. Pay is one of the biggest reasons that some of the best teachers are leaving the field. It is time that we pay teachers like we truly value the work they do for our children! 

Teacher pay must be a part of the debate over improving public education; because to have a world-class public education system we need world-class teachers, and we need to be able to keep the best teachers in the profession! That means paying teachers similar salaries to what their education level earns in the private sector. We have to have this debate in all fifty states and in Washington! I can promise you I will be meeting with Democratic Governors in the coming months to make a push to raise teacher pay in as many states as possible! 

We have seen a lot of success at pushing for state level policies over the last year! We have seen the single largest growth in Universal School meals in a long time with Illinois, New Jersey, Connecticut, Washington, Oregon, Hawaii, and Rhode Island finally joining in the states that offer free school lunch. That is only the beginning, every child deserves to have a warm, healthy lunch. The evidence shows that simply doing that can have massive improvement on the education a child receives. It is a bipartisan proposal; it got over three hundred votes in the house. It only remains controversial with one of the richest men in Washington in the former Senate Majority Leader and in a former charter school executive in the current Senate Majority Leader. 

I find it sad that not only is twenty-five billion dollars a controversial amount to give public schools in need but that it would have been the largest single package for public schools in United States History. According to the Century foundation nationwide we are underfunding our schools over one-hundred and fifty billion dollars annually. We have got to start now, we'll fight in Washington, and in all fifty states. We must give all our children the world-class education they deserve and that cannot happen while we are letting our schools go massively underfunded. 

As we prepare for the midterms, we must organize to win control of more state legislatures and governors so that we can not only stop the tide of Republican budget cuts for Education, but so that we can address the funding gap, raise teacher pay, improve standards, and expand universal school meals. Which we will not be able to do without your support today. As you hear from the rest of the speakers at this event remember at every level of government, we are focused on pushing progressive priorities, whereas the Republicans are focused on taking us back. Help us prepare for the midterms and defeat the reactionary, maga agenda of the Republican Party.

You went hard on Education, and the crowd ate up every bite of it. If this was a keynote speech for the Conference, you delivered it in absolute spades. Bravo on all points. As far as the crowd is concerned, this is why you are the Chair.

On 12/7/2024 at 12:06 AM, Storm said:

Senator Osiris Storm (D-NY)

 

Aloha, friends and allies,

I am Senator Osiris Storm of NY and the proud chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus!

It is a privilege to stand here in Hawaii, a state that embodies resilience and community, as we gather for the Netroots conference to envision and advance a brighter future. Together, we have achieved remarkable victories, but our journey is far from over. Today, I want to share a roadmap for the future—a vision rooted in progress, equity, and innovation.

First, let us celebrate a monumental win for workers: raising the minimum wage to $14 an hour and tying it to inflation. This policy ensures that hardworking Americans are not left behind as the cost of living rises. And honestly, it’s about time we made sure payday feels more like a reward and less like a cruel joke. But we know that a living wage is just the beginning. Our commitment to economic justice must extend further.

We expanded the child tax credit and earned income tax credit, lifting millions of families out of poverty and putting money directly into the pockets of those who need it most. By closing tax haven loopholes, we’ve taken a bold step toward tax fairness, ensuring the wealthiest among us pay their fair share. Because, let’s face it, the ultra-wealthy have been playing Monopoly while the rest of us are stuck on "pay $200 in taxes every time you pass go."

However, our work is not done. We must continue to make strides toward workforce democracy — an economic system that prioritizes unions, enforces fair labor laws, empowers small businesses, and ensures opportunity for every American. Expanding union rights and passing the PRO Act are essential steps to achieving this vision. When workers thrive, our nation thrives. After all, isn’t it about time we gave workers the same job security as your favorite streaming service has sequels?

We will also fight relentlessly to pass the right to repair, empowering consumers and reducing waste. It’s 2024—why does fixing your phone feel like cracking the Da Vinci Code? And we will tackle the housing crisis head-on by eliminating algorithmic pricing in the housing market, repealing the Faircloth Amendment, and creating truly affordable housing options. Together, we can expand homeownership opportunities and ensure housing is a human right, not a commodity. Because no one should have to choose between paying rent and buying groceries—or worse, paying rent and buying coffee. Let’s keep our priorities straight, people!

Additionally, we are committed to expanding Medicaid and Medicare and making universal healthcare a reality. Healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. By ensuring every American has access to affordable, high-quality care, we can build a healthier, more equitable society. Imagine a world where going to the doctor doesn’t feel like signing up for a second mortgage. That’s the future we’re fighting for.

We also need to invest in education. Let’s eliminate student debt, expand access to tuition-free community college, and ensure every child has access to quality early childhood education. Knowledge is power, and empowering our future generations is the key to sustaining our democracy and economy.

But our work doesn’t end there. We face an existential threat—the crisis of climate change. Our very existence depends on how swiftly and decisively we act. Together, we can:

Expand renewable and green energy sources.

Build resilient infrastructure to withstand climate disasters.

Partner with international allies to hold corporate polluters accountable.

The time for half-measures has passed. We must lead the charge against climate change with bold, transformative action. Let’s make sure our grandkids inherit a planet that thrives, not just survives.

Finally, we must break up monopolies that stifle innovation and crush competition. A true free economy prioritizes the rights and needs of workers and small businesses over unchecked corporate power. Because if we wanted one company to control everything, we’d just rename Earth "Monopoly Planet" and call it a day.

Friends, the challenges before us are immense, but so is our resolve. Together, we can build a future that is fair, sustainable, and filled with opportunity. Let us march forward—undaunted and united—to create a nation that truly lives up to its promise for all. And if we stumble along the way, well, we’ll just call it "character building" and keep moving forward.

Mahalo, and let’s get to work!

If you weren't running for President before, a whole lot of people are wondering if you're considering it now. This feels like a campaign speech, and they were here for it. You hit every area this crowd wants and demands. Bravo

On 12/7/2024 at 12:09 AM, Alaskansockeyepuffs said:

HTK's 2026 Netroots Speech
 

Aloha, Netroots!

It’s so good to be here with you in my home state of Hawai’i. I can’t tell you how much it means to stand before all of you, the backbone of the progressive movement, in a place that shaped my values, my fight, and my hope. Hawaii has been the focal point of the progressive movement, spearheaded by the likes of my good friend Senator O'Hare, (who let me say is doing a hell of a job as DNC Chair), along with Governor Green, and so many others. It is really an inspiration to see Hawaii lead the nation for the better.

Two years ago, I stood on the biggest stage of my life. I fought with every fiber of my being to bring progressive values to the White House, and I came up short. Losing is not something I am accustomed to. But let me tell you, no campaign trail prepares you for what happens the day after you don’t win.

I want to share something personal. On election night in 2024, I sat on the couch with my two daughters, watching the results roll in. As the map slowly turned against us, I knew I would have to look into their eyes and explain what it meant to lose, and not just for me, but for all of us who poured our hearts into that campaign. It was heartbreaking. It was humbling. And I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t uncomfortable to admit to all of you here tonight that I failed in my goal.

The days that followed, I didn't know how to feel, to come so close to becoming a major part in American history, it is a feeling, that I would honestly wish on anybody. I kept wondering "why did this happen", I questioned my beliefs, my career, my philosophy. I however realized that in this time, I needed to turn to those who had been in my exact shoes. I read Walter Mondale's book, a man who was frankly ahead of his time. I looked at those who didn't make it, and realized that they didn't quit because the going gets tough.

Behind the scenes, as the person who didn’t win, yes there were moments of doubt, yes there were moments of grief. Because no one likes to fail, right? Society teaches us to revile failure, to run from it, to hide it away. That is the easy thing to do quite frankly, to hide away from failure. But here’s the thing: I’ve learned to embrace it.

Failure isn’t the end. It’s the beginning. It’s where you find your grit. It’s where you grow.

And while the Republican Party celebrated that night, popping champagne and declaring the death of the progressive movement, they made one critical mistake: they underestimated us. They thought that because I didn’t win, our values didn’t win. That our vision for this country would simply fizzle out.

*pauses for dramatic effect*

Oh, how wrong they were. *laughs*

In the year and change, since that election, progressives have thrived. Across the country, we’ve pushed forward universal school lunch programs to ensure that no child goes hungry not just in Hawaiʻi but in states from coast to coast. And when Republicans in Congress shot down a national effort, they showed the world what we already knew: they’d rather see children starve than support a progressive idea.

We’ve led the fight to raise the minimum wage, expand union rights, and protect working- and middle-class families. We’ve made strides on climate action and healthcare, even while the current administration governs through executive orders because they’ve lost the trust of the people.

Think about that for a moment. The President, who campaigned on bold Republican promises, is now boxed in, reduced to pushing E-Verify and other policies through executive action, bypassing even his own party. We have them on the ropes. It’s not us who are on the back foot, it’s them. And let me tell you, it feels good. For too long, they’ve tried to keep us on the backfoot. But now? The tide has turned. The energy is with us.

And why? Because we’ve proven that our ideas are not just popular but necessary.

This is why I won’t give up. This is why I’ll keep fighting not for me, this was never about me, but for the values we share. For a country that prioritizes its people over profits. For a country that stands for justice, equality, and opportunity for all. I am fighting for you!

I know the road ahead won’t be easy. We’ll face challenges, just like we always have. But remember this: Challenges don’t break us they shape us. And they’ve shaped me into someone who’s more determined than ever to keep pushing forward.

I have faced challenges, I have faced what many considered my political "death sentence", and yet here I stand unshaken, determined, and I will continue to fly in the face of my doubters, these same doubters have belittled me, have called me a "loser" more times than I can count. They have spun that I am somehow bitter and a sore loser. What they do not realize however is that.  I am not the same person that I was in 2024, I have changed, for the better! This movement has  also changed, and I would like to think for the better, we have grown, we have adapted and we have succeeded in ways we have never seen before! We are stronger and more prominent than at any point in recent history, and we have done it though grit and unrelenting determination.

The Republicans however have not learned anything from their Trump era disasters, they continue to peddle extreme partisanship, they continue to try and divide, to push failed policies on everyone, and they continue to push us backwards, while lying to American people.

So tonight, I stand here, not as someone defined by the loss of 2024, but as someone renewed by it. Challenges don’t define us they refine us. Every setback I’ve faced has made me better, stronger, and more resolved. I am here to tell you that the progressive movement is not dead. It’s alive, it’s thriving, and it’s leading the charge.

We’re fighting for a country where every child has enough to eat. Where every worker earns a fair wage. Where every community, whether in a rural town or an urban center, has access to healthcare, housing, and opportunity.

Now, I’m not just asking you to believe in this movement. I’m asking you to invest in it. We have shown time and time again that we are consistent, we are effective, and with the midterms coming up, if we can take back control of the Senate, our opportunities, and possibilities are endless. Ask yourselves, do you want more deadlock and ineffectiveness in the Senate under Majority Leaders, Koenig and Duplantis? Or do you want effective leadership once again? To the Republicans calling me a "sore loser" or crazy I say this, keep up with your games, because frankly, we don't have time for your political smoke and mirror shows, we have work to do, and we are doing it!

The battles ahead will be tough, not doubt about it! The Republicans would love nothing more than for us to give up, to stop fighting, to stop organizing. This movement is growing, and energized, we have done alot, but there is more that needs to be done.

Now, let’s take this energy, this passion, and let’s show them what we can really do. Let’s expand our majorities. Let’s turn more states blue. Let's go to new horizons, targeting states that the GOP think have in the bag. Let's fight for the middle and working classes, by making their lives better. Let’s fight for the America we know is possible.

Thank you, Netroots. Let’s rise together. Mahalo nui loa!

Okay are YOU running for President again? If people look back at this speech, this will be the speech they claim unofficially launched your second election bid for President. The Progressives ate up of all it and are demanding more. Extremely well done

On 12/7/2024 at 12:47 AM, jakeakins said:

Good evening, everyone.

It is great to be here alongside my colleagues in this stunning state of Hawaii. There is truly no place like it. Thank you, Senators O’Hare and Kahoina, for hosting us and allowing us to—how should I say—invade your state. I promise we will try to leave it just as beautiful as we found it.

My name is Dr. Chandler Williams, and I have the great honor of serving the Beaver State in the U.S. Senate. Oregon has been my home for my entire life, and I’ve dedicated much of that life to understanding and sharing history. I spent nearly 40 years as a historian working in museums, preserving stories of the past and connecting them to the present. I also served as an associate professor of History at the University of Oregon and still enjoy returning as a guest lecturer when my schedule allows.

It’s always a privilege to stand in places rich with history, and Hawaii is no exception. But while history is important, tonight I want to talk about what’s happening now—what we are doing, or perhaps failing to do, in Congress.

I first want to thank our Leader Coleman for his steady guidance during this turbulent session. Let’s be honest: this Congress, like too many others in recent years, has faced challenges with partisanship and dysfunction. It has been, in many ways, unproductive. But despite the gridlock, there have been some bright spots, and I believe it’s important to highlight those moments of progress.

One such moment is the passage of the Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2024. This bill, while modest on its surface, represents a profound commitment to the men and women who have worn the uniform. It ensures that their benefits keep pace with the rising cost of living, a small but essential way of saying, “We have not forgotten you.” As someone who has met with countless veterans in my state, I know how much this means to them. For many, it’s the difference between stability and hardship.

Another achievement this session is the Post-9/11 Veterans’ Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2024. This legislation recognizes a critical and often overlooked issue—the mental health struggles faced by those returning from service. For too long, we have asked our veterans to fight battles abroad and then left them to fight battles within themselves, often with little support. This bill provides much-needed resources for mental health care, helping veterans transition back into civilian life with the dignity and care they deserve.

Closer to home, I am particularly proud of the Increasing Access to Mental Health in Schools Act. Our children are facing a mental health crisis, with rates of anxiety, depression, and other challenges at all-time highs. This legislation invests in mental health professionals and services within our schools, ensuring that help is available where kids spend most of their time. When we prioritize the mental well-being of our young people, we are not just addressing immediate needs—we are investing in their future and the future of this country.

Housing, too, has seen progress. The LIFT Homebuyers Act of 2024 and the Small Public Housing Agency Opportunity Act of 2024 are critical steps in tackling the housing crisis. The LIFT Homebuyers Act makes homeownership more attainable for first-time buyers, helping families build stability and wealth. Meanwhile, the Small Public Housing Agency Opportunity Act gives smaller housing agencies the tools and flexibility they need to address local needs more effectively. Both of these laws remind us that government can and should work to lift people up, providing them with the foundation to succeed.

These achievements prove that when we focus on the issues that truly matter, we can make a real difference. However, not all legislation this session has reflected those values.

The so-called Education Transparency and Parental Rights Act is a stark example of what happens when misguided priorities take center stage. This bill, while marketed as a tool for empowering parents, does far more harm than good. It introduces unnecessary bureaucracy into our schools and places undue pressure on educators already stretched thin. Instead of fostering trust and collaboration between parents and teachers, it breeds division and distrust.

Let me be clear: transparency in education is important. Parents should be involved in their children’s education. But this bill is not about transparency; it is about control. It opens the door to micromanagement and censorship, undermining the professional judgment of teachers and the integrity of the classroom. It sends a chilling message to educators that their expertise and dedication are not valued, at a time when we are already facing a teacher shortage across the nation.

The consequences for students are even more troubling. This bill distracts from real issues—like underfunded schools, overcrowded classrooms, and outdated materials—that directly affect students’ ability to learn. Instead of giving our children the resources they need to succeed, it creates barriers. At a time when we should be focused on building a robust, inclusive education system, this legislation takes us backward.

I cannot stress enough how damaging this approach is, not just to our schools but to the very fabric of our communities. Education is the great equalizer, the foundation of opportunity and progress. When we politicize it, when we turn it into a battleground, we fail our children, our teachers, and our future.

Despite these challenges, I remain hopeful. The successes we’ve seen this session—on veterans’ care, mental health, and housing—show that progress is possible when we work together. They remind us of what government can achieve when we focus on the common good.

But hope alone is not enough. It requires action. It requires us, as lawmakers, to put aside petty politics and partisanship and focus on what truly matters: the well-being of the people we serve. It requires all of us—elected officials, educators, parents, and citizens—to stand up for the values we believe in and to hold our leaders accountable.

Hawaii, with its rich history and spirit of unity, serves as a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we work together. Let us take that spirit back to Washington and use it to guide us in the months and years ahead.

Thank you.

Not as strong as the earlier speeches, but an extremely solid and great speech overall. You gave the crowd everything they wanted; who you are, what you and the party have done and what more needs to be done. Well done.

On 12/7/2024 at 12:49 AM, camilodeso said:

excerpt from speech

 

“Democrats have proven that we are ready to lead. From education to the economy, to responding to the urgent needs of Americans impacted by Winter Storm Arya, Democrats have consistently led the way. And we didn’t lead for the sake of credit or accolades; we led because it’s our duty to uplift America and the American people. We stepped forward not for selfish gains or partisan triumphs, but because the people demanded action, and we answered their call.

And let me be clear: we didn’t achieve these victories through executive orders or shortcuts. We did it by rolling up our sleeves, bridging divides, and collaborating across the aisle. We fought for real solutions, for meaningful change, and for the lives of the people we serve. These aren’t just Democratic achievements, they are victories for every family, every community, and every corner of this country.  

But the work is far from over. If we are to keep fighting for the soul and security of this nation, we need you, Netroots. We need your voices, your passion, your power. Together, we can take back the People’s Senate for the people, not for selfishness, not for party, but for country.

This is about ensuring our democracy works for everyone, not just the privileged few. It’s about resisting division and inequality, and winning a brighter future for all Americans. Netroots, we’ve resisted before, and we’ve won before. And with your energy, your determination, and your commitment, we will resist again, and we will win again. Let’s fight for the People’s Senate. Let’s fight for our future. Together, we will not just make a difference, we will make history! Let's take back the Senate this year and the White House in 2028 TOGETHER!”

Decent solid speech overall. You kept things short and to the point.

Final Summary: NetRoots went off fantastically, with the rank and file extremely enthusiastic. All three caucuses of the Democrats were there, so all factions are content with party unity. There is open talk between the factions of whether or not two Presidential bids just got launched here on the floor.

PAYOUTS:

Democratic National Committee Chair Charlotte O'Hare of Hawaii
- 20 GPs

Senator Osiris Storm of New York
- 20 GPs

2024 Democratic Nominee for President & Senate Minority Whip Hannah Trujillo-Kahiona of Hawaii
- 20 GPs

Senator William Chandler of Oregon
- 16 GPs

Senate Minority Leader Rafael Coleman of Colorado
- 16 GPs

TOTAL PAYOUT: 92 GPs