Every 10 years, after the U.S. Census, the boundaries that determine who votes in which districts are redrawn. The last time this redistricting was done, in 2002, the Republicans, who were in control of the Florida legislature, gerrymandered the districts to favor their own candidates.

Thanks to these underhanded tactics, Florida's Eighth Congressional District now stretches all the way from Ocala to Celebration, encompassing parts of four counties. This was done to ensure that District 8 would remain solidly Republican until 2012 - but the Republicans didn't count on the overwhelming tide of change now sweeping the nation.

As of September 30, District 8 has 1,000 more registered Democrats than registered Republicans.

The people have spoken: District 8 is blue. Now all that's left is to be sure our voices are heard on Election Day. To do that, we need your help. Please encourage your friends, family and neighbors to vote, whether it's by absentee ballot, in early voting or on Election Day.

To avoid long lines and traffic problems on Election Day, early voting is your best bet. It starts Monday, October 20, and runs through Saturday, November 1. For information on locations and hours of operation, call your supervisor of elections office or go to the website.

Lake County: 352-343-9734, http://elections.lakecountyfl.gov

Marion County: 352-620-3290, http://www.votemarion.com/

Orange County: 407-836-2070, http://www.ocfelections.com/

Osceola County: 407-742-6000, http://www.oscelections.org/

We've won the registration race; now it's up to you to be sure we win on Election Day, too! The most important thing you can do now is help us turn out Democratic voters. Please remind your friends, family and neighbors to vote!