Thedownballot

As you know, it is difficult to consistently engage with the electoral process. There's a lot to learn on a routine basis in order to understand what is taking place at all times - a task that is much more difficult amidst a pandemic and a post-election political climate that is contentious as ever. As a result, down-ballot races (contests for state and local offices such as House and Senate seats within the state legislature) go widely unnoticed by the general public. Because these elections are often not greatly publicized and can be difficult to track, winners are declared without the input of numerous constituents. This is a key concern because state and local officials ultimately pass legislation that will directly affect many of the same voters who are left out of the electoral process. At thedownballot, we aim to bridge the gap between philosophy and praxis by empowering voters to put progressive politics into practice through consistent engagement with state and local elections. This project is committed to providing simplified coverage for the down-ballot races that will take place in the next four years leading up to the next presidential race in 2024. Our goal is to be a one-stop-shop that provides users with the resources to make informed decisions on who best represents their core values. Our work is infused with an analysis of the impact that certain policy positions will have on access to healthcare and reproductive rights, worker rights, environmental protections/regulations, racial justice. In addition, we aim to help voters connect the dots. For example, if a candidate states that they're in favor of protecting individuals with pre-existing conditions but are also proponents of the repeal of the Affordable Care Act, we highlight that this is a position that holds some inconsistencies. From there, we encourage you to think about how a certain politician will represent you as their constituent.