Democracy Bingo: How Many Votes Can You Inspire?

Young people (18-29) have historically lower turnout rates. Personalized encouragement, especially from someone they know, is highly effective in getting them engaged. Send a friendly text message like, “I know you’re concerned about several issues in our country and planet. What are your plans for voting this year?

Research shows that asking people about their voting plan increases the likelihood they will vote by making them think through the logistics in advance. Encouraging people to vote early makes elections run more smoothly, reduces stress, and avoids possible Election Day delays.

Voters are more likely to feel confident and vote if they are informed about what’s on the ballot. Knowing the issues helps avoid confusion or voter fatigue at the polls. Go to Vote411.org/ballot for full descriptions of proposed new laws in your state.

This nonpartisan hotline helps protect voters’ rights. Volunteering helps voters in real time to overcome barriers, particularly in areas prone to voting issues and discrimination.

Personal texts from friends or family “friend to friend” have been shown to be one of the most effective ways to boost voter turnout. It makes voting feel personal, urgent, and relevant.

Low-wage workers often face barriers like inflexible schedules and lose wages to vote. A brief, encouraging conversation can remind them their vote is important, and they might act on it.

Research shows that people who rent, especially those who move frequently, are less likely to vote. A simple prompt can help them make the effort to register or vote, especially if they’ve just relocated. Ask if their voter registration is up to date.

Social peer pressure is a strong voting motivator. Seeing someone familiar voting can encourage others to do the same, especially when asked directly about their own plans. Note: You can include your “I voted!” sticker or the outside of a sealed ballot envelope in your selfie, but please don’t include your ballot in any public photos.

Decision fatigue can reduce the quality of choices voters make, especially on down-ballot races. Fill out your ballot from the bottom and work your way up. Starting with local offices to federal ensures that you focus on candidates with the most immediate impact on daily life.

Undecided voters often need time to make their decision, so engage undecided voters in conversation, “What issues matter most to you?” Remind them that their vote matters, even if they aren’t completely sure about every race.

Voters with disabilities face logistical barriers that reduce voting turnout. There’s no need to feel awkward or uncomfortable. Simply say, “If there’s anything I can do to support you in voting this year, please know I’m here for you. Is that something you’d like to talk about?”

Election workers are crucial to ensuring smooth, fair elections. Staffing polling centers helps reduce long lines, machine malfunctions, and other barriers that can deter voters. Check out Power the Polls by non-partisan League of Women Voters. Training is included.

This is the single most important action. Your ballot directly impacts local, state, and national policies, and every vote contributes to a functioning democracy.

Or: “You have the right to vote. If anyone tries to stop you, call the Election Protection Hotline at 1-866-687-8683.” Making sure voters know where to seek help if they encounter issues at the polls increases the likelihood that their vote will be counted, even if problems arise. Post this message mid-October and again a day before the election.

Sharing personal reasons for voting connects voting to real-world issues. “I’m voting this year because I value [freedom, choice, equality, etc.].” Telling personal stories allows others to experience your inspiration or struggle with injustice and motivate them to work for change by voting.

Americans living abroad often miss out on elections. Sharing this resource helps ensure they don’t lose their voice just because they’re not physically in the U.S. Say, “Even living abroad, you have the right to choose your representation. Vote and register at https://www.votefromabroad.org/“

Voter rolls can change, especially with recent voter suppression tactics. Checking your status early ensures you’ll have time to resolve any issues before Election Day. It takes 30 seconds at vote.org.

Knowing where and how to vote in advance reduces stress and confusion on Election Day. It makes the process easier, especially for those voting in unfamiliar areas. Find out where to vote with Vote411.org.

Local leaders have a direct impact on your daily life. Researching their platforms ensures informed voting on the officials who will represent your community. Start with Vote411.org, but also Google names to find news articles about them.

Turning Election Day into a social event keeps people engaged and excited about the results. It adds a positive, communal aspect to civic participation. This 2020 guide has five recommendations for a fun and successful election party.

In some states, voting can be complicate and fraught with barriers. Vote411.org helps people plan to vote. Research shows that when people have a plan are far more likely to follow through on voting.

Take the guesswork out of voting and Vote411’s tool to learn about your state-level candidates. State officials make critical decisions on issues like healthcare, policing, and voting laws. Being informed about their platforms empowers you to make meaningful choices.

Ever get to the bottom of your ballot and think, “I have no idea who these commissioners or judges are”—and then not vote? Or run across a ballot measure you don’t understand—and then not vote on it? There’s a great solution: Look at your ballot beforehand. Get the skinny on proposed laws and all candidates—even hyperlocal ones like school boards—to make informed decisions on who will lead your community.

Judicial races are often overlooked, but state judges make decisions that affect criminal justice, civil rights, and other legal issues. If your state elects its judges, a quick Google search will reveal their rulings and possible conflicts of interest, ensuring you vote for judges aligned with your values.

Prevent that horrible feeling of fearing you might not get your ballot in on time. Election reminders from sites like vote.org keep you aware of important dates, registration deadlines, mailing dates, and Election Day itself.