We are deeply concerned about the people of East Palestine, Ohio, as well as the immediate and long-term ramifications of the Norfolk Southern train derailment, which happened on Feb. 3rd. Roughly 50 cars carrying toxic chemicals such as vinyl chloride derailed and turned into a massive fire leading to 5,000 residents being ordered to evacuate. After a “controlled release” of more chemicals, residents were told they could go back to their homes, but many still feel (and rightfully so!) that it is unsafe. “We basically nuked a town with chemicals so we could get a railroad open,” said Sil Caggiano, a hazardous materials specialist. Residents have reported thousands of dead fish and chickens, some found miles outside of town. According to the CDC, long-term exposure to contaminated air or water from vinyl chloride can cause an increased risk of liver, brain, and lung cancers, lymphoma, and leukemia. Other dangerous chemicals are still being discovered in the wreckage.

In 2018, the Trump administration, backed by rail lobbyists and Senate Republicans — rolled back part of that rule aimed at making better braking systems widespread on the nation’s rails. A move that many are saying directly contributed to not only the derailment in Ohio but in other parts of the country. He must be worried, too, since he hasn’t said a word about what happened but is planning a trip to East Palestine next week. Wall Street says Norfolk Southern profits won’t suffer from the derailment, and Railroad Workers United is saying this is nothing new. Railroad industry execs have driven the bottom line into the ground for a hundred years.

But, as Mr. Roger’s mom used to say, “Look for the helpers.” The Progressive Change Campaign Committee (PCCC) has called on Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to reinstate railway safety regulations from the Obama administration.

Senator Sherrod Brown has already visited East Palestine and sent letters to the Environmental Protection Agency, National Transportation Safety Board, and Centers for Disease Control calling for action.

Request your ballot NOW! The midterm elections are coming on November 8. Your vote is crucial to helping Democrats get elected and moving our state and country forward!

Ohio can turn the tides this year if you turn out to vote! Ohio has a US Senate and a Governor’s race where candidates are within points of each other in the polls. It could go either way! We have three strong female candidates running for the Ohio Supreme Court and a chance at having incredible Democratic candidates all the way down the ballot elected into office. This election will change Ohio’s future on gerrymandering, women’s healthcare rights, climate change, education, and so many other issues that affect us no matter where we are in the world. 

Keep reading below for:

• Detailed instructions on how to request, return, and track your ballot
• Detailed instructions on when to use a Backup Ballot
• How to help us reach more Ohioans abroad
• How to get help with voting