André Miller, Vice Chair of Multnomah County Democrats, explains why, even in a Democratic stronghold like Multnomah County, your vote is crucial to our democracy and the quality of life in our local community, state and nation. Catch his greeting video on the MultDems YouTube channel:

In a presidential election year, everyone focuses on the presidential ticket. But the truth is, the effectiveness of our national leaders in promoting our values and solutions to pressing challenges is greatly determined by candidates all the way down the ticket. The best way to support our candidates for national office is to support our candidates for state-wide and local office, too. We need voters committed to ensuring a strong Democratic coalition up and down the ballot by knowing all of the candidates and voting in every race.

Here’s a transcript of André’s message to fellow Democrats right now:

I am so glad to be connecting with you today as we approach this critical election.  I want to take a moment to talk about why your vote, yes your vote, matters more than ever. We all know how important it is to vote in the presidential election, but it is just as crucial to vote all the way down the ballot. Each vote for local candidates – for school boards, city councils and county commissions – directly impacts our communities. These are the leaders who make decisions that affect our daily lives from the quality of our schools to the safety of our neighborhoods. Local candidates might not get the same attention as the top of the ticket, but they are vital in shaping the policies that touch our everyday lives.
Your vote is your voice, and in this election, your voice is needed more than ever. When you vote, you are voting for a future that reflects our shared values of justice, equity, opportunity and progress for everyone.
So when you fill out your ballot, remember every vote counts, and let’s ensure that we are electing Democrats that align with our values.
Thank you for standing up for showing up and making your voice heard. Let’s work together to create the change we want to see right here in our community and across the country.
Thank you. In the words of a Michelle Obama and Kamala Harris, “Do Something,” because we are not going back.