John, the countdown clock is moving fast toward the 2022 midterm elections. Right now, fewer than 210 days remain.
Whether or not every eligible voter is able to freely and fairly participate – without obstruction, intimidation, or suppression – on November 8, 2022 will have huge implications for the future of our nation and for our democracy.
In a moment, I’ll tell you about a small but immensely effective step you can take to help protect democracy. But first, let me bluntly outline the problems we face…
Sadly, you and I both know that free and fair elections are not something we can take for granted. Partisan politicians in states like Georgia and Texas have reacted to 2020’s record voter turnout with new restrictions on the right to vote aimed particularly at voters of color.
To effectively meet and counter these threats, between now and November 2022, Common Cause members like you will be called to action on multiple fronts – to stop any attempt by the far-right to rig the rules of our democracy and shut out the voters they fear.
Unfortunately, even in the best-case scenario – voters will be forced to contend with many of the anti-voter attacks that have already been implemented in states, as well as battle against gerrymandered state maps.
That’s why, as we chart out our litigation strategy between now and November, I have instructed our team to maximize their impact and prioritize lawsuits that will defend the greatest number of voters from the unjust burdens placed on their rights.
Right now, as we do every election year – but especially important this time around – our staff are working with election officials ahead of Election Day to help them prepare.
We’ll use the data we gathered during the primaries and in 2020 about what went wrong – whether it was malfunctioning voting machines, long lines, running out of ballots, or other challenges – so we can get to the root of those problems and fix them.
In addition, we will mobilize thousands of Election Protection volunteers all across the nation. These brave everyday individuals will serve as voters' first line of defense against suppressive laws, online disinformation, and other attempts to intimidate and obstruct the vote.
Each year, these volunteers protect and assist countless eligible voters as they make their voices heard – no matter what repressive tactics are used to deny them a free and fair vote.
John, this will be a mammoth undertaking – and it’s not something we can spin up overnight. Each of these efforts requires months of planning and major investments.
Quite frankly, we have no choice but to take these actions – even though our resources are already stretched to their limits. The consequences of inaction pose an unacceptable threat to our democracy.
That’s why it’s reassuring to know that, in this make-or-break moment for American democracy, I can count on Common Cause members like you to step up to make these essential actions as potent and powerful as possible.
John, I’m asking today if you will help us win this fight for the long haul by becoming part of a special group of Common Cause members.
Those who’ve joined this special group – called Guardians for Democracy – make a small, monthly donation of $5, $10, or even $25. In turn, this consistent generosity gives us a reliable base of support, essential to planning and budgeting for long-term campaigns.
This is one of the most important actions you and other caring members can take for our democracy.
AND: if you respond today, I’ll send you a copy of former Common Cause Board Chair Robert Reich’s new book, The System: Who Rigged It, How We Fix It, as our way of saying “thank you” for helping to save our democracy >>
Sorry, I can't become a sustaining member at this time, but I’d still like to make a one-time gift to help where it’s needed most.
John, when looking at the enormity of the challenges ahead, my determination only deepens. You and I both know that the work is difficult and taxing – but we also both know it’s absolutely vital if we are to save and leave a democracy worth inheriting for the next generation.
I hope you will accept my invitation to become a Guardian for Democracy today.
Thank you for stepping up in this moment of crisis.
Karen Hobert Flynn, President
and the team at Common Cause