John --

Happy Friday, Team Country First!

We're thrilled to share some exciting news: our Founder, Adam Kinzinger, has been chosen as a Co-Chair for Power the Polls! This initiative is crucial in recruiting dedicated poll workers and election judges to uphold free and fair elections. In a time when these essential roles are facing increasing threats from extremists who do not believe in free and fair elections, it’s upon us to help ensure they have the necessary support to administer elections without fear.

As Country First Founder, Adam Kinzinger stated “ At a time when our democracy is facing unique and historic threats, the role poll workers play in keeping our elections free and fair has never been more important.”

This coming election, Country First will do everything in our power to defeat those who want to tear down our institutions and the fabric of our democracy. 

Have a great weekend and let’s make a difference together!

Team Country First,

Each week, Country First will highlight a key member who has demonstrated placing Country over Party. If you would like to submit someone who has made a positive impact on your experience with Country First, please email [email protected]. 

Meet Kelli Nelson

Where are you from and how long have you been a volunteer for Country First?

I live in Reno, NV and I joined Country First about a year ago.

What has been your focus at Country First?

My focus is protecting democracy. I'm working with the election reform working group, trying to develop a grassroots movement here in Nevada to get ranked-choice voting across the finish line in the 2024 general election, and educate people on the important role that the USA plays with global democracy. 

What was your motivation for joining Country First and how did you hear about us?

I'm terrified that our democracy is in grave peril of falling and I'd been looking for a way to be part of the solution to protect it. I followed the Jan 6th Committee hearings and afterward heard Rep. Kinzinger talk about starting Country First and felt it would fit my values and goals. 

What are your hopes for America in the coming years and generations?

I believe with education, acceptance, and community, America will continue to be the beacon for Democracy that she's been for over 200 years.

Do you think we can right the ship?

Yes, I do. But we're going to have to fight for it. Not by shedding blood, but through education, due-diligence, truth, and UNITY.

Thank you, Kelli, for all of your hard work and dedication to promoting and preserving democracy!

2024 Election 

The Hill: Kerry Washington, Adam Kinzinger to help lead poll worker recruitment effort
Country First Founder Rep. Adam Kinzinger and Kerry Washington are teaming up to help lead an effort to recruit election poll workers ahead of November. The former “Scandal” star and the ex-congressman will be among the co-chairs on an advisory council for Power the Polls, the nonpartisan organization announced Thursday.

Fast Company: How ready are we for AI-powered election deception? Arizona just found out Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes hopes playing out worst-case scenarios will help prepare election workers—and the press—for what’s ahead in November. Their first simulation revealed what threats might look like and the pressure election officials will be under as they try to respond. 

USA Today: States are grappling with recruiting poll workers. This Nebraska county drafts them.
“Nebraska is the only state in the country to draft poll workers, according to the National Council on State Legislatures, but it is primarily used by Douglas County, which encompasses part of Omaha, the state's largest city. Although many volunteers help out at polls, the county still drafts about 45% of

Opinion 

Midland Daily News: Let’s fix our presidential primaries with ranked-choice voting
“The current process isn’t working for voters or political parties, and it isn’t generating results that give American voters confidence in our democracy. We can do better. This current moment of shared bipartisan frustration — before we harden into partisan camps again — is the time to address it.”

Washington Post: Opinion: Buck up, America. Help is on the way.
“Yet while Americans of all ages are split on whether democracy is working well, the young remain the most optimistic about its potential. They’re less partisan, committing to issues and causes more than to parties. For them, the real problem with democracy is the way the older generations use it.”

Washington Post: Want to help renovate American democracy? Welcome to Democracy, Refreshed. The Washington Post is rolling out “Democracy Refreshed”, a newsletter focused on how to “renovate the republic”. Click the link to learn more and sign up!

JOIN our private, troll-free Facebook group “Movement Makers” to engage in thoughtful dialogue, learn from one another, and collaborate on volunteer projects.

DONATE to Primary First and help support the simple, bold plan to take-on and take-out the most toxic partisans in Congress.

SHOP the cause by ordering our Country First sandlot baseball, hand signed by Adam Kinzinger!