So what can we do when we hear news about our local politics that makes us angry or frustrated?
The first thing to do is diagnose the problem. Is the issue that bothers you local, state, or national?
You need to distinguish between these because they are different, and different groups of people affect them.
By the way, many issues that people think are national are at the state level. Change begins in your backyard.
The national issues and candidates you see may be great and in need, but your efforts are more impactful and necessary in your community.
You must engage in our political system if you want to change things.
That doesn’t mean going to social media and yelling when there’s bad news. It might be emotionally satisfying, but it doesn’t change anything. Change is made by action.
Many people don’t want to engage in local politics because they think it’s intimidating, gross, and fake.
And the reality is that it is a lot of the time, but it doesn’t have to be.
Local Politics: Here’s What You Can Do
One: Volunteer at a local political party. Many parties are active. If your local party sucks, then rebuild it.
Party mobilization is how things change. You hate politics, but it is our system. You must pick a party and get to work. It’s your civic duty.
If you dislike politics more than you dislike what’s happening, well, then that’s your answer.
In 2024, we are set to vote to save our democracy or support authoritarianism. Your participation will determine the outcome.
Two: Volunteer for a candidate’s campaign for office. Knock on doors, stuff envelopes, drop flyers, make phone calls, etc.
Three: If you have money to spare, consider giving something to a deserving candidate or organization.
Four: Bring friends and neighbors together and host a speaker about your local politics.
Five: Find a local organization that does work you support and join them. The national groups do not need your money or attention as much as your local ones.
Six: Closer to an election, text your friends and see if they’re registered to vote. Tell them who you’re voting for and why.
Seven: Run for office yourself. In most places, the bar is low for both parties.
Eight: If an election doesn’t go your way, email your friends and start a conversation about change.
Many people have no idea what happens in their state’s legislature. They don’t know how it affects them and don’t have time.
Nine: A small email list sharing essential information about your local politics can grow to thousands of people and have a real impact.
Ten: It isn’t easy to start a whole new organization, consider joining an existing one is the best way to go.
Whatever you do, what people need most today is people willing to show good leadership.
Get involved and do something.