CIRCLE - The Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement’s Post

At P.A.C.E., part of our vision is that everyone has access and opportunities to fully participate in our democracy. We are thrilled to share in our new meta-analysis report that our targeted voter participation campaigns with partners across the country have made a significant impact in ensuring that more voices are heard. 📈 Higher Turnout Rates: In 12 out of 13 analyzed campaigns, voters targeted with our tactics turned out at higher rates than other voters in the same elections. 🔟 10 Points Higher: On average, these voters had a turnout rate that was 10 points higher than the overall local turnout. Click here to download the report and learn more about how we’re partnering with local leaders to amplify our impact! https://lnkd.in/eujvYBcb

"The more people that participate in New York City's elections, the stronger our democracy." Our Executive Director Paul Seamus Ryan joined the great Errol Louis on NY1 News to discuss the staggering gap between voter registration (82%) and voter turnout (7.2%-12.8%), the average age of NYC voters and the many languages we speak, and other trends from last year’s elections. They also discuss the CFB’s recommendation to align local elections with state and federal elections, which would increase participation and save tens of millions in taxpayer dollars. Watch here: https://lnkd.in/eVA9wg7D And for more details, check out our newly released Voter Analysis Report. https://lnkd.in/eNUYWPV7

Elections don’t belong to private political parties. While private political groups have the right to identify their standard bearers, that doesn’t mean voters should be restricted in deciding who advances to the general election and represents them in office. WA’s Secretary of State Steve Hobbs remains opposed to ranked choice voting: “Ranked-choice voting adds a layer of complexity to voting that threatens to disenfranchise people who aren’t experts at the process." Former California Governor Jerry Brown may have said it best: "In a time when we want to encourage voter participation, we need to keep voting simple. Ranked choice voting is overly complicated and confusing. I believe it deprives voters of genuinely informed choice." Moving to a clean open primary like WA’s Top Two, is a debate worth having. Adopting open primaries, however, need not be tied to the controversy of ranked choice voting. https://lnkd.in/g798tGVe

Right to Vote 2024: Empowering Democracy As we approach the pivotal 2024 elections, the right to vote stands as a cornerstone of our democracy. This fundamental right ensures that every citizen has a voice in shaping the future of our nation. Voting isn't just a privilege—it's a powerful tool for change. It allows us to influence policies, hold leaders accountable, and advocate for the issues that matter most to us. In 2024, let's embrace this opportunity to participate in the democratic process, no matter which side of the aisle we stand on. Here are a few ways to make your vote count: 1. Stay Informed: Research candidates and issues to make educated decisions. 2. Register Early: Ensure you're registered to vote and understand the deadlines and requirements in your state. 3. Encourage Participation: Talk to friends and family about the importance of voting and help them register if needed. 4. Vote Early: Consider early voting options to avoid long lines and last-minute issues. By exercising our right to vote, we honor the sacrifices made by countless individuals throughout history who fought for this fundamental right. Let's make 2024 a year of robust civic engagement and a testament to the power of our collective voices. #RightToVote #Democracy2024 #CivicEngagement #YourVoteMatters

Exercise your power!

Featured Event: Black voters and the complexity of race and politics in the 2024 elections Black voters have increasingly been identified as a pivotal Democratic voting bloc in critical state and federal elections, with over 85% voting for Democratic candidates in recent national, state, and local elections Despite overwhelming support for Democratic candidates, Black voters hold a range of ideologies; they are conservative, moderate, liberal, and progressive, and approximately 10% of Black voters consistently vote for Republican candidates. Is there waning enthusiasm for Democrats in the Black community? If yes, what is causing this shift in partisan support? If not, what makes Black voters of different ideologies vote consistently for Democratic candidates? What are the two parties doing to address issues of concern to Black voters? Register to join: https://loom.ly/EU4fbHk

In politics, the focus often shifts to the political campaign—primaries, general elections, debates, and of course, election day itself. However, a critical component of effective political work that often goes unnoticed is the importance of maintaining constant communication with voters—both supporters and potential voters—even when no elections are on the horizon. Beyond the excitement of campaigns, ongoing engagement with voters not only enriches the political process and strengthens democracy itself, but also helps political candidates build a better and more effective campaign, ultimately improving results on election day. Consistent outreach to voters ensures that they remain engaged in political participation beyond just casting a vote. Political theory distinguishes between citizens who participate in politics as "gladiators," who are politically active in multiple areas and on a regular basis, and "spectators," whose role is to show passive political involvement, primarily limited to casting a vote every few years. Naturally, there are far more spectators than gladiators.

Your vote is your voice, and it has the power to shape the future of our nation. Voting is a fundamental right and a civic duty that should never be taken for granted. By exercising your right to vote, you actively participate in the democratic process and hold our elected officials accountable. Every vote counts, and even a single vote can make a significant difference, especially in close elections. Your vote ensures that your voice is heard and your concerns are represented. It is a way to advocate for the issues that matter most to you, whether it's education, healthcare, the environment, or any other cause you're passionate about. Moreover, voting is a privilege that many around the world still do not have. By choosing not to vote, you are essentially surrendering your power to influence the decisions that affect your life and the lives of those around you. Voting is not just a right; it's a responsibility. It's how we shape the future we want to see for ourselves, our families, and our communities. So, make your voice heard, and encourage others to do the same. Let's embrace the power of voting and create a better tomorrow. Have you exercised your right to vote in the most recent elections? #VotingMatters #MakeYourVoiceHeard #CivicDuty #DemocracyInAction #VoteForChange

Great tips

New research from the Unite America Institute reveals a concerning trend: fewer than 1 in five eligible Colorado voters are participating in competitive elections. The report, "Colorado's Primary Problem," highlights how this lack of competition suppresses the will of the majority and leads to a highly polarized legislature. Discover how proposed reforms could increase voter participation and ensure every vote matters. Read the full report here: https://bit.ly/3xZLhyL #ColoradoPolitics #ElectionReform #PublicPolicy