Local elections determine leadership and policies that directly affect the day-to-day lives of millions of people. Decisions made at this level impact everything from schools and public safety to infrastructure and zoning regulations. Voting in these elections also empowers community members to convey their concerns to elected officials for a more representative democracy.
However, low awareness and apathy about these elections often result in lower voter turnout. Lauren shares why it’s important to vote in local elections and highlights some of the strategies that have been successful for increasing civic engagement and participation.
In many local elections, races for city councils and school boards are decided by just a few hundred or even a dozen votes. This makes every vote incredibly important, especially for historically underrepresented communities like people of color, low-income individuals, and young voters. By voting, these communities can shift the balance of power away from leaders who don’t share their interests or priorities to those who do.
Increased awareness about local elections and their impact can be achieved by implementing informational campaigns and by educating individuals on how to participate in the electoral process. This includes providing accessible polling stations that provide accommodations for citizens with disabilities.
Using newer forms of communication can also help increase voter engagement. For example, utilizing social media and community events to highlight the importance of voting can inspire residents to participate in elections and address key issues they care about.
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