ACLU Supporter –

When we say "vote like your rights depend on it" – it's not just about the presidency.

No doubt, whoever occupies the White House for the next four years will have immeasurable consequences on our democracy. Last night's debate made that clear. But there are other critical decisions in this election.

Down-ballot races for local officials and ballot measures have a much more direct impact on our communities, and they're also where your vote makes an enormous difference.

The ACLU has been working in states across the country to ensure voters know what's at stake in these local races – and we want to make sure you do, too. Read up on the types of civil liberties issues that could be on your ballot. Here are just a few that we're focused on:

• Criminal Justice Reform. In Maricopa County, AZ, voters will have the chance to address key issues like police accountability and cash bail by voting for the next county attorney – or in Oklahoma, voters can support State Question 805, which limits extreme sentences for nonviolent crimes.
• Reproductive Freedom. Voters in Montana can help protect abortion access in this urgent moment by casting an informed vote in the state's governor race – while Coloradans can vote against Proposition 115, which bans abortion later in pregnancy.
• Immigrants' Rights. The quality of life for immigrant communities could be transformed based on how people vote in the mayoral race in Miami-Dade County, FL – as well as in the local Georgia races for Gwinnett and Cobb Counties' next sheriffs, roles that have the power to end ICE contracts.
• Racial Justice. As our country continues to face an urgent reckoning with anti-Black racism, Nebraskans can make a direct impact by voting to reduce predatory payday loan interest rates – while Californians can restore affirmative action by supporting Proposition 16.

ACLU Supporter, we know many voters don't engage with the electoral process because they don't think their votes make a difference. But down-ballot voting is where all of us have the power to shape policy on the issues we care about.

And in a year like 2020, which has shown just how much change is needed, that's something we can't afford to overlook.

So please, learn the critical local races in this election cycle, share that knowledge with your friends, and if you haven't already, vote like your rights depend on it.

Thank you,

The ACLU Team