The Election Before the Election: Why Primary Elections Matter
Sisters,
Before November ever arrives, the primaries set the stage. This is where we decide not only who gets to fight for the right to represent us, but which issues rise to the top of the conversation.
Every candidate runs on a platform — simply put, the set of priorities and promises they pledge to act on if elected. What candidates put in their platforms tells us what they value. And when we vote in the primary, we signal right back what matters to us.
Being an informed voter takes work. Negative ads would have us believe everyone running is the devil incarnate; positive ads make them sound like the second coming. The truth sits somewhere in between — candidates and issues are complicated. So, let’s pause and build our primary voting game plan:
- Check your registration status. Confirm you’re registered, your address is current, and your party affiliation is set.
- Know who and what is on your ballot. Research the candidates and any ballot questions yourself — don’t rely on the ads.
- Make a plan to go vote. Decide when, where, and how: early, by mail, or on Election Day.
- Bring your family and friends. Your power multiplies when the people around you vote too.
To help you get vote-ready, WE CAN has partnered with Vote411. Click the image below for every tool you need for the primary — and the November general.
Once we vote, our work is only beginning. We MUST hold those we elect accountable, and that starts with building relationships through in-person meetings.
That’s why WE CAN is hosting Walk In Ready: Claim Your Power Seat with Elected Officials — a free, one-hour virtual session, Thursday, June 25th at 7:00pm. You’ll learn how to request a meeting, prepare your message, carry yourself for maximum impact, follow up, and keep your electeds accountable long after. Two seasoned advocates will share insider tips and meet you wherever you are. Walk in ready. Claim your seat.
Sisters, our power was never meant to stop at the ballot box. Voting in the primary is how we open the door; showing up, speaking up, and holding our electeds accountable is how we walk through it. The decisions being made right now — about our budgets, our programs, our communities — are too important for us to sit out.
So let’s do this together. Get vote-ready for the primary. Mark your calendar for June 25th at 7:00pm. And come ready to claim the seat that has always belonged to you.
We can do this — because together, WE CAN.
In solidarity,
Dr. Stephanie, WE CAN Founder