A People-Powered Future

Reflections from an Indivisible Co-Leader in the Wake of No Kings June 2025 - Craig Swallow, Co-Leader Indivisible South Coast New England

As I reflect on the past week and weekend, I remain deeply inspired by the strong sense of community in the South Coast, especially in the face of national unrest. This area is woven into the fabric of America’s history. It’s where our nation was founded and where past Presidents sought refuge to reconnect with the roots of our country. During summer, the region comes alive with tourists drawn to its simple pleasures—beaches, ice cream, and lobster rolls. While tourism and boating industries thrive here, the heartbeat of the community lies with generational fishermen and family-owned businesses, supported by the hard work of migrant laborers who are now an essential part of our community’s identity.

This is why you've seen protests in Fall River, New Bedford & Fairhaven. Because every American deserves a democracy that serves the people, not the powerful. In the South Coast, where families are facing violations of their rights by the federal government—corporate-backed politicians profit and fundraise for personal gain. The urgency of this moment should be undeniable. Indivisible and I stand for a movement that puts working-class voices first, rejects corporate control, and rebuilds trust in our system. Together, we can have a future where every community thrives through the shared values of our democracy and relentless action to create a new system that benefits the working & middle class.

All elected officials, regardless of party, must boldly defend our Constitution, champion due process, birthright citizenship, and the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of equal protection. These aren’t partisan ideals—they’re the bedrock of our democracy. We can not afford to support elected officials who are more concerned about hoarding PAC donations and creating campaign war chests than they are with violations of human rights within their district. Voters deserve leaders who fight for them, not donors. This betrayal fuels our demand to crush the dark money that corrupts our system.

The middle class is being betrayed by elected representatives who favor a system of backroom deals and donations that benefit corporations. PAC donations to elected officials show that their priorities are not with the people. I’m calling on every Democrat to gut this corruption: refuse PAC donations and torch Citizens United with legislation. Show voters your fight is with them, not corporations. These are not just policies—they’re the demands of your voters for a system and officials that win back their trust.

This fight demands fresh leadership, not career politicians using public office for personal gain. The party’s aging leadership only deepens the disconnect. Imposing term limits ensures elected roles serve the people, not lifelong power. Democrats must embrace younger voices - not cling to aging hierarchies. Our most experienced politicians should be embracing mentorship and preparing a new generation to forge the country’s path. By rejecting corporate cash and empowering new leaders, we stop the cycle of enrichment and build a party that reflects our future, not our past.

That’s why I’ve humbly accepted the role of co-leader of Indivisible South Coast New England, to be a part of making this vision possible for all people who live and work in our community. I am also excited to be part of our movement #PrimaryThemAll. This movement is about more than policy—it’s about restoring trust in our democracy. It is a reminder to all elected officials that their job is to improve the lives of all Americans, not just themselves.

Join us, so we can fight for our shared vision of a stronger, united community that reflects the will of its people.