The Power of Voting and the Importance of Voter TurnoutThe Power of Voting and the Importance of Voter Turnout In the pivotal 2020 election, Philadelphia demonstrated the profound impact of voter turnout. An impressive 66% of registered voters cast their ballots, propelling Joe Biden to victory in Pennsylvania by a narrow margin of just 1 percentage point. This outcome underscore the resounding message: every vote counts. The Call to Action in 2024 As we approach the crucial 2024 presidential election, Philadelphia faces another significant electoral moment. Alongside statewide and local races, the importance of voter turnout remains paramount. While individual votes carry great weight, collective action is essential to maximize participation. Ways to Enhance Voter Turnout To ensure that our voices are heard, consider the following ways to contribute to increased voter turnout: * Encourage Friends and Family: Reach out to loved ones and encourage them to register and vote. Share information about the importance of civic participation and the impact of every ballot. * Volunteer for Voter Registration Drives: Assist non-profit organizations or community groups in registering voters, particularly in underserved areas where participation rates tend to be lower. * Join Get-Out-the-Vote Efforts: Participate in organized efforts to promote voter registration and turnout, such as canvassing neighborhoods or making phone calls to potential voters. * Become a Poll Worker: Staff polling locations and ensure a smooth election process. This role is crucial for facilitating access to voting and upholding the integrity of the electoral process. * Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about the candidates, policies, and voting procedures. Share accurate information with others to empower informed decision-making. As the birthplace of American democracy, Philadelphia has a legacy of civic engagement. By embracing these initiatives, we can foster a culture of active participation and ensure that all voices are heard in the upcoming election. Let us collectively rise to the occasion and make 2024 a testament to the resilience and power of the Philadelphia electorate.
The stakes were high in the 2020 election (Remember 2020?) and Philadelphia stepped up. That year, 66 percent of our registered voters cast a ballot — the highest voter turnout since 1984. After 24-hour mid-pandemic ballot counting by people like this guy, Joe Biden won Pennsylvania by 80,555 votes — just about 1 percentage point.
Proving: Every. Vote. Counts.
In 2024, we face another crucial presidential election, with a bunch of essential statewide and local candidates, too. Of course, you’re going to vote. (Right? Not like in 2023, when only a third of Philadelphians voted?)
But your vote alone is not enough this year. So vote — Yes please! — but also consider helping turn out the vote. After all, we live in both a swing state and the birthplace of American democracy. We Philadelphians must step up to ensure our friends, neighbors, young people, older people, everyone votes, in person, by mail, however.
Below, some ideas for how you can help increase voter turnout and help this unprecedented election run smoothly.
