What Is a Caucus?

What Is a Caucus And Why Should You Come Out on a Cold January Night?

North Haven Democratic Town Committee

Caucus: January 6, 2026 | 6:00–9:00 PM | North Haven Rec Center

Selectman David Cohen, Fire Commissioner Peter Criscuolo, and DTC Vice Chair Steve Gifford at the North Haven Rec Center, between 2 ferns

Every two years, Democrats across Connecticut gather for one of the most important and least understood events in local politics: the Democratic Caucus. If you’ve never been to one, you’re not alone. But if you’ve ever wondered how to get more involved, how candidates get endorsed, or how the DTC itself is formed, the caucus is the place to start.

And yes… it’s in January. And yes… it’s cold. But trust us, it’s worth bundling up for.

So, what is a caucus?

A caucus is an open meeting of all registered Democrats in North Haven. It happens every two years and serves two key purposes:

1. Electing members of the Democratic Town Committee.

The DTC shapes our local party, recruits candidates, organizes campaigns, and helps set the vision for Democratic leadership in town. Members are chosen directly by you. It is one of the most grassroots, participatory forms of democracy you’ll ever experience.

2. Setting the stage for the next election cycle.

The caucus determines who will lead the party as we head into another two years of governing, organizing, listening, and building. If you care about the direction of the Democratic Party in North Haven, the caucus is where your voice carries the most power.

Community Services Commissioner Mike Nappe, Water Pollution Control Authority member Codruta Zoican-Loebick, Planning and Zoning Commissioner Benjamin Loebick, Board of Education Member Genevieve Cabrera, and DTC Chair Tim Gabriele outside the North Haven Rec Center

Why does your attendance matter?

Because local democracy only works when local Democrats show up.

Here’s what your presence helps accomplish:

Strengthen our local party.

A strong, diverse, energized DTC means stronger candidates, better campaigns, and more community impact.

Shape the future of Democratic leadership in North Haven.

Your vote determines who will represent you on the committee that speaks for Democrats town-wide.

Build community with people who share your values.

Caucuses are one of the few political events where you can meet neighbors, talk strategy, learn what’s happening behind the scenes, and get involved at a level that truly matters.

Show that Democrats in North Haven are engaged and growing.

Higher turnout tells the whole town and the whole state that North Haven Democrats are active, united, and ready to build for 2026 and beyond.

People gathered in a rec center on a winter day

“But it’s January… why leave my warm house?”

We get it. It’s cozy inside. It’s dark by 4:15. Your slippers are calling.

But here’s the truth:

Local democracy only thrives when we’re willing to show up.

Especially when it’s inconvenient.

Every major step forward our town has made came from people who took one small step first.

The caucus is that step.

Join us. Your voice matters.

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

North Haven Rec Center

Bring a friend. Bring your enthusiasm. Bring your commitment to a stronger, more inclusive, more vibrant North Haven.

Democracy isn’t a spectator sport and this is your chance to get in the game.