As the midterm elections of November 2022 approach, we are witnessing the reported “fight for the soul of our democracy”. This perceived battle is coming down to who controls the House of Representatives and the Senate, which makes up Congress. Given a choice, WE, the People, must be diligent and wise, in whom we choose to represent us and our best interests.
There are those who now represent the minority party, who are focused on “when we take back Congress”, only focusing on their gaining control, without respect to the Power of the Voters, who actually decide elections and who makes the choices on who will be representing the People.
Then, there’s the present majority party, who has been actively pursuing democratic goals, which are intended to be beneficial to all Americans and to have a positive impact in people’s lives. Herein lies the choice – moving forward towards a brighter future, or going backwards, to days gone by without any hopes of much needed progress.
In recent times, our community has been very successful with calling much needed attention, to compelling issues, to have such issues presented to the voters, via the ballot, and with proponents having been successful in obtaining a sufficient amount of signatures, of registered voters, and to have voters make their voices heard- by voting. Although the issue was not passed, it does reflect the POWER of the voters and ballot initiatives. This should not be the last effort to get more voters engaged and involved in making policy changes that affect us all, especially people of color and we mean Black and Brown folks.
Moreover, there’s an increase in the number of organized groups being formed, to address increasing voter TURNOUT and focusing on “What’s On The Ballot”. Some of the more well – known groups have ramped up their presence, by distributing voter education materials, and sponsoring Get Out The Vote initiatives.
Recent reports have stated that more people have begun registering to vote and hopefully, these numbers will be reflected in the voter turnout for the upcoming midterms, as it was reflected in the 2020 general election. Difference makers must continue sounding the alarm and TURNOUT, on November 8th and cast your votes, in favor of change, democracy and progress!
Remember: If you want to CHANGE policies – CHANGE the policy makers!
If you want to CHANGE laws, CHANGE Lawmakers!
We All Must VOTE To Make A Difference!
As September comes to a close, we must ensure that community members are more aware of pertinent deadlines, regarding voter registration and procedures for requesting mail-in applications and submitting their vote, by mail.
* The final day to register to vote is October 11th, 2022.
* The last day to request an application, for a mail – in ballot, is October 23, 2022.
* Early Voting time period is October 24 to November 4, 2022 and a person can vote at any early voting location in Bexar County.
There are changes to the early voting procedures, under the new election laws and these can be reviewed by visiting the Bexar county Elections website – www.bexar.org/elections or by calling the Elections offices at (210) 335-8683.
