Help raise turnout for local elections!

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Turnout Nation is a non-partisan community of volunteers called Voting Captains, who encourage 10 people in their own social networks to vote in every election and advocate for voting rights related issues. We’re building a community of Voting Captains from all over the United States with the common goal of raising voter turnout and improving representation.

There are many local elections coming up in 2021 as well as the midterms in 2022. Local elections and midterms receive significantly less votes yet affect state environmental policy, criminal justice system, economic policy, COVID-19 policy, drug laws, voting and election laws, and redistricting. Usually, turnout for local elections is under 20%. Voting in every election isn't the only way to call for necessary change but it is a powerful and essential tool in creating a more just society. Voting Captains help their friends keep up with important elections and voting rights related actions.

What are Voting Captains?

Voting Captains are volunteers that pledge to get in touch with 10 of their friends leading up to an election in their area. Being a Voting Captain is easy enough to do entirely from your couch and makes a big difference! In fact, we did a randomized control trial with Columbia University in 2019 and found that getting 10 friends to vote was 10x more effective than door to door canvassing. Voting Captains coordinate their outreach with the Empower app. There, they can access up to date election information and easily pass it on to their friends. We also have knowledgeable organizers you can get in touch with if you have any questions.

Why create a community of Voting Captains?

We’ve found that being a Voting Captain is more powerful in a group and as part of a movement. That way, Voting Captains get people in their immediate circles out to vote and inspire other people to join in.

To become a Captain, just express interest in the opportunity and we'll reach out to you.

Organizing Fellowship:

Voting Captains that are interested in going the extra mile can apply for our paid Organizing Fellowships for elections in Pittsburgh, PA- Philadelphia, PA- Harrisburg, PA- Columbia, OH- Cleveland, OH- Cincinnati, OH- Virginia (entire state)- Greensboro, NC- Atlanta, GA- New York, NY- Charlotte, NC- Raleigh, NC- Greensborough, NC- Durham, NC- Orlando, FL- Miami and Hialeah, FL- St. Petersburg, FL

Turnout Nation Organizing Fellows act as a representative for their region before an important election. They help recruit, organize, and engage Voting Captains in their community. There will also be an opportunity to work on a voter education project with other fellows. According to a Tufts Circle 2020 report, nearly ⅓ of young people would participate in civic engagement if given an easy opportunity. Not only do fellows help raise turnout in a local election, they a first step for many in becoming more civically engaged in future elections or movements.

If you live in one of these states as a student or resident, let us know that that you're interested in learning more about the fellowship opportunities when you express your interest.