While national politics get attention, local elections are where fascist movements often begin their takeover. Here’s how to protect democracy in your community.

Why Local Elections Are Critical

🏛️ Fascist Strategy

Authoritarian movements target local government because:
– Lower voter turnout makes races easier to win
– Local officials control election administration
– School boards influence education content
– City councils control police and public safety
– County commissioners oversee voting procedures

📊 The Numbers

– Local elections often decided by hundreds of votes
– Turnout frequently under 20%
– Your vote has maximum impact
– Small donations go further

Key Local Positions to Monitor

Election Administration:

– Secretary of State (state level)
– County Clerks and Election Officials
– Board of Elections members

Education:

– School Board members
– Superintendents
– Library Board trustees

Public Safety:

– Sheriffs and Police Chiefs
– District Attorneys and Prosecutors
– City Council members

Judicial:

– Local judges
– Justices of the Peace
– Municipal court judges

Research Your Candidates

“All politics is local.” – Tip O’Neill

🔍 Vetting Process:

– Review candidate websites and social media
– Attend candidate forums and debates
– Check endorsements and funding sources
– Look for dog whistles and coded language
– Research past statements and voting records

Red Flags to Watch For:

– Election denial or “fraud” claims
– Anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric
– Calls to “take back” institutions
– Conspiracy theory promotion
– Extremist group endorsements

Get Involved

🗳️ Voting:

– Vote in every election, including primaries
– Research all races on your ballot
– Help others register and vote
– Volunteer as a poll worker

📢 Advocacy:

– Attend city council and school board meetings
– Speak during public comment periods
– Organize community forums
– Write letters to local newspapers

🤝 Organizing:

– Join local Democratic or progressive groups
– Start neighborhood associations
– Create issue-based coalitions
– Support candidate recruitment

Defending Democracy Daily

Between Elections:

– Monitor local government meetings
– Build relationships with officials
– Stay informed about local issues
– Engage in community service

Election Season:

– Volunteer for campaigns
– Donate to democratic candidates
– Phone bank and canvass
– Help with voter registration drives

Resources

– Ballotpedia.org – Candidate and election information
– Vote411.org – League of Women Voters guide
– Local newspapers and civic organizations
– State and county election websites

Democracy starts in your neighborhood. Get involved today!