I was having a conversation with the head of one of the major progressive organizations in Democratic politics a while back (don’t want to name which one, as it was a private convo), a group known for the high level of activism of its members, and she was telling me that one of her organization’s top priorities for the 2026 election was turning out their own members to vote. She said that even in the high stakes presidential election year of 2024, a surprising number of their own members did not turn out to vote, that they were discouraged by the tough economic times they were facing and just felt unmotivated.
Another story: I was in a doctor’s office the other day and heard one of the staff talking in very animated terms with other staff members there about how the president had taken away her and her son’s health care insurance. When she took me into the doctor’s office later, I asked her if she was voting and she said, “I’ve never voted before, usually just left that to my sister because she’s more interested in politics than me. You think it makes a difference if I vote?” So we had a good talk about the importance of voting and what is on the ballot this year.
Make no assumptions about who is voting. Even people you know who talk a lot about politics and issues, even the folks who are on social media all the time bitching about Trump, even the ones you see at rallies, might for whatever reason not get out and vote without a gentle push from their friends. I have noticed this especially in polling and focus groups I have seen about young people: because they are cynical about politics, they think more about social media commentary and demonstrations as their way to change things than they do about voting. Or maybe they aren’t focused on the fact that Election Day is coming up. Or maybe they’ve never voted before and are a little intimidated by the process. Maybe they are juggling three jobs and don’t feel like they have time. There are lots of reasons people don’t vote.
So whatever else you are doing to help in this year’s election (and thank you for everything you might have done so far), make damn sure that everyone you know who shares your political views is voting, and make sure everyone you know who might be on the fence gets a final talking-to from you about the election. Some people call this “relational organizing,” I just call it organizing. There are even great tools to help you organize your work like this one from Swipe Left.
And even if you are the sweetest, kindest, most affable person the rest of the year, don’t be afraid to be a little annoying this time of year. Most people you talk to will scoff and say “of course I’m voting.” That’s okay, better to be annoying than to let votes slip away.
One other note: while my focus here is on reminding like minded people to vote, work your persuasive skills as well. You almost certainly know people who are still wavering on who to vote for. Reach out to those friends and colleagues and neighbors as well. Talk to them about why you are voting for Democrats, and how important this election is. Answer their questions. (On these conversations, it is better to be less annoying.)
Nothing is more powerful in politics than hearing from people you know about issues, candidates, and campaigns. Don’t assume anything and don’t be shy. After all the money you have given, all the doors you have knocked on, or calls you have made, getting your own voters out may generate as many votes as anything you do.