So Representative Knopp dared to think differently. 

Knopp, along with two fellow Republicans, refused to join their party’s caucus, instead believing that having a majority governing coalition comprised of Republicans, Democrats, and independents would be more effective. 

Representative Knopp and his fellow rebels held out for 31 days until at last a multi-partisan governing coalition emerged, made up of not only Republicans and Democrats, but independents as well. He thought about governing differently, and in doing so, ensured that all Alaskan voices would be heard during the legislative session. 

Remember Gary Knopp

Please, take a moment to read about the legacy of Gary Knopp, an Alaskan leader and an example for our nation.

Watch this video about Knopp, his efforts, and his philosophy on governance. 

Read about his life, about his rebellion, and about what you all had to say in response. 

Volunteer

One of the biggest reasons that polling locations across the country are shutting down this election cycle is because of a serious lack of poll workers willing to volunteer. They have reason — the average age of poll workers in 2016 was over 61 years, and in the midst of a pandemic, those individuals are safer staying at home. 

Our nation needs healthy young people to do their part and sign up to be poll workers. To keep our republic, we as regular citizens have to step up to do our part. Learn more about why you should volunteer this election cycle, and how you can sign up to do so.

Then Vote

Don’t listen to the fear-mongering; this year’s election will be secure. Unite America executive director Nick Troiano sat down to give the Upside to the election news: not only is safe, secure voting possible this election, but it’s going to happen. 

Watch his interview here.

Once again, our voting comes down to us as voters; Americans need to do their part, requesting absentee ballots early (if required in their state) and returning them early. We can’t procrastinate this election cycle. Holding an election during a pandemic is already hard enough. Don’t make your county clerk’s job harder.