The front page of the Northwest Arkansas Democrat Gazette has some great news this morning. Early voting is tracking ahead of 2020. Approximately 91,000 people have voted in Benton and Washington counties this year compared to roughly 86,000 at this point in 2020. 5,000 more folks or 5ish%. That’s good news. 34 people move to NWA each day. If 50% of those newbies are of voting age, that means just shy of 24,820 new eligible voters. I’m setting the over under at 13,500 or 54% for a turnout number for ‘em. Takers?

Forward this to a new neighbor and they can find
 WHERE TO VOTE HERE.

Fatigue is real.  We are all tiring of election news, campaign ads, and people like me reminding us all to go vote.  I get it, you get it, we all get it.  So let’s get after it!

Soon, we’ll all look up and it will be Thanksgiving.  We’ll have an entirely new set of issues over which to squabble.  An extremist will show up with some side dish idea they saw trending on social media, a radical new take on green bean casserole.  The new BF/GF du joir will call the dressing “stuffing” but most of us will meet this behavior head on with patience, love, and tolerance until the outcast is out of earshot.  

Until then, let’s all agree that the time is now to make our voices heard at the polls. Let’s agree that this place is worthy of it, this moment is worthy of it, the future is worthy of it.

Voter turnout is a strong indicator of a healthy community, reinforcing both civic engagement and the social fabric. When more of us vote, it generally indicates robust engagement with local issues, awareness of challenges and opportunities,  and a collective investment in shaping our community’s future.

The relationship between voting and community cohesion is evident in  how voter engagement reflects and shapes local policy priorities. Higher turnout can result in policies (and policymakers) that better align with community values, from infrastructure improvements to educational investment. In communities where turnout is high, elected officials are more likely to be responsive, knowing their constituents are engaged and watching closely. On the flip side, communities with low voter turnout can experience stagnation, as there is less pressure on leaders to drive positive changes that benefit the whole population.

Let’s each do our part in cultivating a culture of voting.  This act serves as  both a reflection and driver of community health.  A collective commitment to voting doesn’t just enhance the democratic process; it strengthens the foundation of the community itself, creating a more engaged, responsive, and interconnected society.

Please review an earlier post from this summer, The Practicalities of Participation, for reasons why business and community leaders should get involved as well as some tips for how to do so. Or, check out some highlights from that post below.

For-Profit Playbook

Businesses can support civic participation without choosing a political side.

Paid Time Off to Vote: This ensures that all employees have the opportunity to participate in the election without worrying about missing work or losing pay.

Voting Reminders and Resources: Use company communication channels to remind employees and customers about upcoming election dates and provide non-partisan resources on how to vote and what to expect at the polls.

Non-Profit Playbook

Non-profits can play a crucial role without engaging in political advocacy.

Community Outreach and Education: Organize voter education programs in the community to inform people about the importance of voting, how to register, and what they need to know about the voting process.

Collaborate with Other Organizations: Partner with local businesses, religious institutions, and other non-profits to amplify voter turnout efforts.