Tuesday, November 2 is the Midterm elections. Included in this election are issues and candidates for Congressional, state, and local offices. In the first primary on October 2, 22.5 % of Louisiana voters actually cast their ballots. The expected turnout for the second primary on November 2 is estimated to be 30-35%. The amendments adopted and the officials elected will be our voices for many years to come. If we take the top end of the estimate we will be allowing 35% of the voters to determine the fates of the other 65% of the citizens in Louisiana. What can we do to encourage voter turnout? How do we get voters to participate in the upcoming Midterm elections? The following were historic solutions used in the River Parishes and in St. Bernard Parish.

Growing up as a child in the River Parishes under the Police Jury form of government for Louisiana politics was wonderful. The incumbent Policy Juror would get a flat bed trailer, hire a band, and place it strategically outside one of the local River Road pubs. Adults could enjoy the music and go in the bar and get unlimited free drinks and food. For kids, the political rallies were also great fun. We were able to run around getting all the cokes and snacks we wanted and play with our friends. I can still remember watching the adults laughing, joking, and the Police Juror smiling patting everyone on the back. For a kid growing up in the River Parishes, it was a great introduction to Louisiana politics.

If we can’t go back to the Police Jury approach, perhaps we could use the legendary St. Bernard Parish method for Louisiana elections. I have a friend that was born and raised in St. Bernard Parish or as he continues to remind us, in Arabi. Arabi he explains is the upscale area of St. Bernard Parish. The voters of St. Bernard Parish, many who for generations have lived there are known for their commitment to voting in elections. As history has it they adhere to some distinct voting patterns: they vote early & on many occasions often in the same election. They are also resilient voters and have a legacy of continuing to vote several years after they die. Now this is truly Louisiana politics that we can all understand!
Unfortunately the River Parish and St. Bernard Parish methods of voting are no longer put up with.

We can all agree that there is a climate of voter apathy that permeates our entire country. Many voters see it as disenchantment with President Obama. Other voters simply state “it’s the economic stupid.” Just like other states, Louisiana will probably reelect most incumbents, allow some career politicians to reshuffle positions, and do the things that guarantee that change will not occur.

As Louisiana voters, we have several choices. We can let the 35% of voters that cast their ballots determine the political agenda for the entire state. Or we can attempt to make a difference beginning with this election. On election day let’s do the things that can help to make a difference. Each of us individually can get on the phone with our family and friends and inquire as to whether they’ve had a chance to vote. If they have not voted, encourage them to vote. Offer them transportation to the voting site if they need a ride. Suggest a willingness to watch their kids or anything else that will make it easier for them to vote. Work you list of phone numbers. Participate in the solution. Don’t try to tell your friends and family how to vote, let them make their own decisions. Let them know how important this race and every race are to their future and the future of our state.

It’s time for us to stop blaming what’s happen in our country on everyone else. Let’s make this the first step of changing the political culture of Louisiana. We do have the power to make meaningful change. That change can occur, “One Vote at a Time!”

Tweet This Post Plurk This Post Buzz This Post Delicious Digg This Post Facebook MySpace Ping This Post Reddit Stumble This Post