“Rising Tide: How Voter Registrations and Suppression are Shaping the 2024 Election”

Rising Interest in Voter Registrations Ahead of November 5th Election

As the countdown continues towards the November 5th general election, there’s growing evidence of increased voter registrations and efforts to boost voter turnout on both local and national levels.

Using Past Success to Guide Future Democratic Efforts

Focusing on past success as a guide for the future, and preserving democracy as we know it, has inspired groups from all walks of life to take to broadcast, print, and social media platforms to advocate for action. These groups are united in their support for the survival of democracy, despite the rising threats of fascism.

Media Reports Show Surge in Voter Registrations Among Key Demographics

Various media outlets have been reporting increases in new voter registrations in battleground states, particularly among young adults and especially young women. Additionally, a diverse array of groups have emerged, identifying themselves as supporters of Democratic nominee Vice-President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Governor Tim Walz.

Grassroots Movements Fuel Enthusiasm for Democratic Campaign

In a previous article, the Washington Post identified as many as forty online groups that have come together to raise campaign funds, vocalize their support, and capitalize on the wave of enthusiasm across the country. This movement has sparked the slogan: “We’re Not Going Back!”

Challenges of Voter Suppression in Georgia and Beyond

Even amidst the campaign euphoria, the threats of voter suppression remain a key concern. Reports from Georgia indicate massive challenges to voter registrations due to recent legislative changes to the state’s voting rules. Historically, the state would have been required by Section 5 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act to obtain pre-clearance from the Justice Department before implementing new rules.

Bexar County’s Process to Address Voter Registration Challenges

Here in Bexar County, affidavits must be submitted for challenges to a voter’s registration. The Elections office has an in-house process that ensures voters are contacted to affirm their information and remain on the rolls, in compliance with federal regulations.

Attorney General’s Office Raids Target Democratic Activists

Recently, the Attorney General’s office launched a series of raids on the homes of Democratic activists and leaders, reportedly based on “allegations of vote harvesting and voter fraud” dating back to 2022. In response, the president and CEO of the League of Latin American Citizens requested “immediate action” from the Justice Department’s civil rights division.

Governor Abbott’s Claims of Voter Roll Suspensions in Texas

Recent claims by Texas Governor Greg Abbott suggest that over one million voters have been suspended from the state’s voter rolls. It’s reported that seventeen percent of registered voters are on a suspended list, meaning their addresses cannot be verified by their county’s election department. According to the Vice-Chair of the House Elections Committee: “If you have been placed on the suspended list, you can still vote.” Some Democrats express frustration that major updates to voter eligibility are occurring so close to an election, now less than 70 days away. Austin-area Democrat Lloyd Doggett noted, “Federal law requires a freeze on purging the rolls, which is why they’re suspended rather than purged.”

Importance of Voter Registration and Participation

The persistence of these issues highlights the importance of all eligible individuals registering to vote and participating in the election. Register now and get out to VOTE: You’ll Be Glad You Did!!

Register to vote or verify your registration HERE.