Look, this could be a football post. But, I won’t let it be…this time. Many of you have heard me complain that I am really sick (and guilty) of politics being treated as sport. Complaints (and judgement) about the state of politics has been a go to happy hour conversation starter as long as I can remember. It’s easy. I suppose it’s cathartic. It makes you sound informed and passionate. Most of the time, in my circles, it wreaks of the paralyzation of privilege. We must stop Monday morning quarterbacking democracy.

Admission - I am guilty of all I am condemning on this intro.

We each have varying levels of ability to involve ourselves in the democratic process. Some have more time, influence, or money than do others. But we all can vote…or at least there is a high chance that you, reader of this email, can vote in Arkansas.

_{There are 14 days for voting in Arkansas this year beginning on October 21st and running through Election Day (November 5th.) YOU CAN VOTE ON A SATURDAY (at halftime.)}

I want to be sure to thank the people in our town (Bentonville) that are engaged and close this part of the newsletter on a high note. Last night I attended the second of three debates for Bentonville Mayor. This was hosted by The Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce, Northwest Arkansas Community College, and Downtown Bentonville Inc. Well over 100 people attended. Questions were thoughtful. Candidates were equally so.

I was visiting with a. friend on the way out who said, “They’ll see me at city council. I guess I just play the role of pain in the @$$. It feels like sport, which stinks.”

The difference here is that the individual is informed and engaged. She takes the time to educated herself and to show up to support or oppose policies. She’s busy running a successful business. I’m grateful we have folks like her on the field. Maybe the rest of us should do the work required to get off the sidelines.

States with the Lowest Voter Turnout (2022)

Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Alabama, West Virginia, Indiana, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Texas. These states stink at showing up and voting.

Educational attainment: States with low turnout often have fewer college graduates. Mississippi and West Virginia rank among the lowest in college attainment.

Household income: Many of these states also have lower median household incomes and higher poverty rates. Mississippi has one of the highest poverty rates in the country.

Economic vitality: Economic challenges, such as slower job growth and higher unemployment, are common in these states and translates into lower political engagement, as economic distress can lead to feelings of political powerlessness (which feeds the low economic outcome again!)

Health outcomes: Higher rates of chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and lower life expectancy plague states like Louisiana and Mississippi.

States with the Highest Voter Turnout (2022)

Minnesota, Maine, Colorado, Washington, Oregon, Vermont, New Hampshire, Wisconsin, Montana, and Iowa. They’re like the SEC of voter turnout!

Educational attainment: Colorado and Vermont have some of the highest percentages of college-educated residents, and states like Minnesota consistently rank high in education outcomes.

Household income and adjusted gross income: Colorado and Washington have higher-than-average household incomes and strong economies bolstered by thriving industries such as tech, healthcare, and finance.

Economic vitality: These states tend to have more diversified and resilient economies with higher employment rates and better job growth (aka overall economic health.)

Health outcomes: High-turnout states generally have better healthcare systems and outcomes. Vermont and Minnesota rank among the healthiest states, with lower obesity rates and better access to healthcare services.

Population growth: States like Colorado and Washington have experienced robust population growth, often tied to economic opportunities, which tends to correlate with higher voter turnout.

Arkansas by the Numbers

Voter Turnout - LAST

Arkansas had about 54% voter turnout, significantly below the national average of 66%. It ranks last among U.S. states for civic engagement and voter participation​

Health Outcomes - 48th

Economic Vitality - 41st

Household Income - 47th

Educational Attainment - 44th

Population Growth - 30th

It DOES Matter.

Better Representation and Policy Making:

• Higher voter turnout ensures a more representative government, which can lead to policies that are more inclusive and beneficial to a broader population.

• Inclusive policies can address income inequality, education, and healthcare, leading to better economic outcomes.

Improved Public Services:

• Increased voter engagement can lead to greater demand for accountability and efficiency in public services.

• Better public services, such as education and healthcare, can enhance human capital, driving economic growth.

Economic Stability:

• Higher voter turnout can contribute to political stability, which is attractive to investors and conducive to economic growth.

• Political stability reduces uncertainty, fostering a favorable environment for business operations and economic planning.

Social Cohesion:

• Increased civic engagement can enhance social cohesion and trust in institutions, which are critical for economic development.

• Societies with high social cohesion often exhibit lower levels of crime and higher levels of economic collaboration and innovation.