In activist circles, we hear it all the time: our local elections are just as important as the national elections.
In the long term, the former is even more important, because nationwide policy and leadership are usually steered by our cities and states. And in the short term, the results of local elections impact our everyday lives, as articulated in this League of Women Voters article by Thomas Tai.
Still, according to this report in The Oregonian, last year’s May election in Oregon got a turnout of about 23%. Not only is this stat the usual contrast from our general election turnout (about 72% in November 2024), but also a drop from other recent local election turnouts (27% in May 2023, 26% in May 2021).
What information would you most want to share about local elections? (It can apply to your own corner of the state.)
Shar Walbaum
Indivisible Lincoln City, Oregon Coast Indivisible Alliance / Lincoln City
First, I have to say – 23%!!! I knew it was low, but…
Until Lincoln County Commissioner Claire Hall died in early January, our three-member commission operated in the best interests of the diverse county. During that time, however, one member – Casey Miller, expressed frustration and unhappiness about progressive county practices and programs. He did his best to obstruct the commission’s work. That led to some strong sanctions against his behavior. After Hall passed, the two remaining commissioners (Miller and Walter Chuck) were deadlocked and couldn’t agree on a replacement, couldn’t hold meetings, and didn’t get business done. For four months.
Now, all three seats are open. Both Miller and a friend and colleague, Curtis Landis, are fighting hard to get two of those seats. They know the political future of our county is at stake. They are well funded, have more signs, and both have high name recognition. If they succeed, Lincoln County governance will shift completely.
MAGA doesn’t reflect who we are in Lincoln County. But, low voter turnout could make that moot.
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