Sean Davis for Astoria

July 16–22, 2026

Astoria is an amazing place in the summer. There is always something happening, and sometimes the events are just strange enough to remind you why we love this town.

Last Thursday, I took part in the sea lion calling competition and then ran in the grueling .08K race, which was really just a short sprint from the corner to Bridge & Tunnel Taproom. I love celebrations where three or more generations can come together and have fun. Secondhand Seattle did a great job playing 1990s music while the crowd enjoyed local beer, refreshments, and a beautiful summer evening downtown.

On Saturday, Rogue Cell had a tent at the Astoria Column’s 100th anniversary celebration. Being there felt like taking part in history in a city that is so deeply connected to its past.

Many people stopped by to learn about Rogue Cell and support our mission of bringing veterans together through community and purpose. Others approached and asked whether I was Sean Davis, the candidate running for mayor. I would step away from the tent and have a real conversation with them about Astoria and its future.

We did not have a tent at the Sunday Market this week, but I still walked through and spoke with residents. During the first phase of this campaign, I spent much of my time meeting people and listening to what they believed Astoria needed from its next mayor. Now, I am beginning to ask for their support and their vote.

I continue to be humbled by the positivity I am receiving, especially from people I have never met before. They know what is happening in this campaign. They see the work. They notice who is showing up.

On Monday, I attended the Astoria City Council meeting, as I have throughout the year. During councilor remarks, Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick announced that he would not be seeking reelection.

I was genuinely surprised. I was prepared for a competitive race, and I respect the mayor’s years of public service. I would like to believe that at least a small part of his decision came from confidence that Astoria’s work will continue and that I am prepared to serve as its next mayor.

On Tuesday, Rogue Cell held our weekly Veterans Coffee at American Legion Post 12. I sat down with Dan, a 62-year-old Navy veteran currently staying at the Helping Hands shelter.

Dan was generous enough to walk me through the entire process: entering the program, completing the paperwork, receiving a bunk in a room with ten people, and trying to find stability while fighting the urge to drink.

It is not an easy process. But Dan told me he is ready to take it seriously and do the work. He is moving toward having a place of his own, and he knows the struggle will be worth it.

That is what Veterans Coffee is for. Veterans supporting veterans. Every week, new faces come through the door, and we do what we can to listen, connect people with resources, and help one another move forward.

Today, I will be meeting with members of the local longshore union to discuss the issues affecting their members and ask for their support in this mayoral race. Afterward, I will be at the Clatsop County Fairgrounds with the Working Families Party, speaking with as many people as possible about the campaign, the future, and the city we share.

That is the active leadership I intend to bring to Astoria City Hall.

Leadership does not begin after an election. It begins by showing up, listening, serving, and doing the work.