Dear WakeUP member, The weather is becoming cooler, leaves are starting to fall, and crisp autumn scents are in the air. Fall is ramping up in Wake County and so is our municipal election season! I agreed to serve as WakeUP Wake County’s Interim Executive Director because I passionately believe in our mission to promote good growth planning and sustainable, healthy communities through education, advocacy, and civic engagement, advancing a higher quality of life for all. Today, representing a nonpartisan organization, I’m advocating for you to participate in the simplest of civic engagement opportunities: Vote in Wake County’s upcoming municipal elections. Municipal elections are often overlooked in the political landscape, overshadowed by the grandeur of national elections. In 2019 and 2021, only 16 percent of registered voters participated in November municipal elections. However, their significance cannot be understated. As we’ve seen in Wake County, these local contests determine the future of our neighborhoods, transportation, water quality, public safety, and education. Local elections, which encompass city/town councils, mayoral positions, and other local offices, are the closest link between residents and our government. They ensure that the power of governance is distributed, allowing people to elect representatives who understand their unique concerns, needs, and aspirations. This proximity to the electorate is crucial in maintaining a strong and responsive democratic system. Furthermore, municipal elections serve as a fertile ground for political engagement. They provide an accessible entry point for individuals interested in public service, often serving as a stepping stone for future state or national leaders. These local positions nurture leadership, encourage civic participation, and create a pipeline for diverse voices in American politics. Next Tuesday, November 7, voters in Angier, Apex, Durham, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, Holly Springs, Knightdale, Morrisville, Rolesville, Wake Forest, Wendell, and Zebulon – plus District D in the Town of Cary – will select their next leaders. (Or early voting is available through November 4). So my plea to you is threefold: (1) Be informed, (2) Vote, and (3) encourage at least three other people in your circle to vote as well. You can learn more about your local election on our mobilize page - and remember to bring your ID. Be sure your voice is heard! Sincerely,
Chris Herndon, WakeUP Interim Executive Director |
