Many voice frustration during Congressional Town Hall

A town hall held by Congresswoman and Democratic Whip Katherine Clark as well as Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell brought hundreds from surrounding communities to McDevitt Middle School on Saturday. The auditorium was at capacity, as was the overflow seating in the cafeteria.

While the turn-out may be surprising to some, constituent Bill Peverill of Natick said it was expected.

“I think a lot of people are here to figure out what to do,” said Peverill. “It seems like the most effective way we can take action right now is with the law.”

Waltham resident Roger Abrams felt that despite attending four different rallies, he wasn’t doing enough. “I came today because I was curious to find out what recourse we have against the Republican movement and what our politicians are doing about it,” he said.

The meeting began with a presentation from Congresswoman Clark and Attorney General Campbell on the current presidential administration and the Democratic party’s response.

“You probably aren’t here because you think things are going okay,” said Clark, addressing the crowd. “We need to fight this with everything we have.”

The pair emphasized a three-part strategy of action called “Litigation, Legislation, Mobilization,” which uses courts, Congress and constituent action to meet Democratic goals. 

They also stressed the importance of sharing personal stories with legislators, inviting Waltham resident Sarah Wroblewski on stage to share the story of how the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) targeted funding that helps her 4-year-old son fight cancer.

During the question period, there was audible frustration from the crowd in regard to how long Campbell and Clark had presented in comparison to the time allotted for questions. Those who weren’t able to ask their questions during the meeting were instructed to write their question on provided notecards. It is unclear how answers to those questions will be shared.

The bulk of questions revolved around what specific steps Democrats in Congress were taking to combat the actions of DOGE and the Republican budget agreement that passed through the House in late February.

Abrams thought that Clark “answered as earnestly and honestly as possible,” especially surrounding her transparency about there being no plan B if Medicaid gets cut.

However, many in the crowd were frustrated with perceived inaction from Democrats, shouting, “What are you doing?” and “That’s not enough!”

For those who attended seeking information about what individuals can do in the face of the Trump administration’s agenda, the message was clear.

“Step up, be bold, be unafraid, kick A-S-S,” Campbell said, alongside encouragement to talk to representatives and attend community organizing events.

At least one resident is ready to embody this sentiment.

“We have to stop acting as if there isn’t a crisis happening right here, right now,” said Betty J. Ruth, a constituent from Waltham.

A recording of the entirety of the town hall can be found on Congresswoman Clark’s Facebook page.