Westbrook Mayor Michael Sanphy, left, greets U.S. Sen.  Jeff Merkley, D-Oregon, on Feb. 9 when the Maine Democratic Party opened an office in Westbrook. Merkley was the guest speaker.

Maine Rep. Drew Gattine, D-Westbrook, speaks Feb. 9 as the Maine Democratic Party opens an office in Westbrook at the former Dana Mill, 90 Bridge St.

WESTBROOK — Democratic Party leaders from the city and state welcomed U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Oregon, as the guest speaker when the party opened its office here Feb. 9 in the old Dana Warp Mill, 90 Bridge St.

Phil Bartlett of Gorham, chairman of the Maine Democratic Party, delivered the opening remarks preceding speakers Maine Rep. Drew Gattine, D-Westbrook), and Merkley. The opening was attended by a large gathering of local officials and party volunteers.

Merkley spoke about several issues including healthcare, education, jobs, and the environment. “We have to fight for a healthy planet,” said Merkley, calling for an end of burning fossil fuels.

He also spoke about “800,000 dreamers,”  undocumented individuals who entered the United States as children and have been the focus of a national political, immigration debate. “Let’s stand with them,” Merkley said.

His speech was repeatedly interrupted by applause.

Merkley flew in to attend the grand opening ceremony despite a late session in Congress Feb. 8. He said he was not in bed until 2 a.m. on Feb. 9 and was at an airport at 7:30 a.m. to catch a commercial flight. “It was a short night,” Merkley told the American Journal.

The Westbrook Democratic office is accessed by door number one and is on the third floor of the Dana Warp Mill. The Maine Democratic Party has a permanent office in Augusta.