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PEOPLE POWER FOR ENDI
Every weekend this fall, our members have been out knocking doors for Endi for DSM. Simonson might have the money, but we have something stronger: each other.
We’ve already hit about 2,500 doors and we’re closing in on 3,000 by Election Day. Every knock is a conversation. Every flyer handed out at the No Kings rally was an act of belief in a better Des Moines.
We aren’t afraid to show up. We do the work because we care about our neighbors and our city. That’s the DSA difference.
Join us for the final push. Help us hit every last door and show what people power looks like in action.
Join DSA Today and Make Change in Your Community!
Ready to be part of the revolution?
What’s on the Ballot & Where to Vote on November 4th
Local elections are coming up, and ballots in the Des Moines area will include:
- City council races for Des Moines and surrounding communities
- School board elections across local districts
- Bond referendums such as proposed school improvement plans
- Local measures and initiatives related to public services, infrastructure, and education
Your exact ballot will depend on where you live. You can look up your polling place and see what’s on your ballot using the state’s official voter tool.
Robert’s Rules Corner
Confused about motions? Lost in amendments? You’re not the only one. Robert’s Rules can feel like a whole secret language, but once we get the hang of it, our meetings will run smoother and feel more fair for everyone.
Each month we’ll break down one rule in plain language. This time we’re talking about “Stacking”.
When a lot of people want to speak, stacking helps keep things organized and fair. The facilitator keeps a list, or “stack,” of everyone who wants to talk, then calls on them in order. It makes sure every voice is heard and helps avoid interruptions or side conversations.
Some chapters also use a “progressive stack,” which gives priority to people who are often talked over or left out, helping to make discussion more balanced and inclusive.
Example: During a meeting about upcoming events, five people raise their hands at once. The facilitator says, “I’ve got Jordan, Taylor, and Kai on stack.” When Jordan finishes speaking, the facilitator calls on Taylor, then Kai. If someone else wants to join in, they just say, “Can I get on stack?” and they’re added to the list.
Stacking helps keep discussion respectful, organized, and truly democratic because everyone gets a turn.
Got a burning question? Maybe you’ve wondered:
What happens if two people try to make motions at the same time?
Do I have to stand up to speak, or is that just for Congress?
Send your questions and we’ll answer them on next month’s Robert’s Rules Corner!
Upcoming Community Events
November 9 General Meeting
Join us for our next General Meeting on Sunday, November 9th, 2025. By working together we can make a difference in the Greater Des Moines area. We will take care of our neighbors while the government turns their back on those suffering.
Not able to attend? You can still help strengthen our chapter by donating.
CIDSA Working Groups and Committees
Queer Liberation Working Group
DSA News
Keep DSA Together
In Democratic Left, David Duhalde reflects on what makes DSA powerful: our unity across tendencies and our commitment to democratic structure. He warns that if we move too far in any one direction, whether toward rigid radicalism or watered-down moderation, we risk losing what makes DSA special.
As Duhalde writes, “The caucuses, chapter campaigns, national working groups, and more that make up the organization are a sum that is worth more than its parts.” DSA’s strength comes from being a big tent for the U.S. Left, a place where we can debate, grow, and organize together.
As external repression rises, our power comes from holding each other close, respecting democratic decisions, and remembering that our range of perspectives is what keeps this movement alive.
Keeping DSA together means choosing solidarity, even when it’s hard.
Photo Below: Some of the many buttons worn by DSA members at the 2025 National Convention by Alexandra Chan (Twitter: vitasoystan / Instagram: noelle.png)
DSA Urges Sanders to Halt Arms to Israel
As Senator Bernie Sanders accepts this year’s Eugene V. Debs Award, which honors champions of labor and social justice, DSA is calling on him to uphold Debs’ anti-war legacy by demanding a permanent end to U.S. arms sales to Israel.
National DSA has signed an open letter urging Sanders to take a stronger stand against U.S. complicity in Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza.
Read the full letter and statement from National DSA
Every day, Des Moines is shaped by the people who live, work, and love here. Endi believes in a future where our city grows together and where opportunity doesn’t depend on your ZIP code, your background, or your bank account.
This election is a chance to choose leadership that reflects who we are. Vote for Endi Montalvo-Martinez for City Council At-Large and help build a Des Moines that cares for everyone, protects what matters, and puts people first.