6 Ways to Make Every Vote Count in 2025 and Beyond

Important elections are happening across the country in 2025, from governor’s races and mayoral contests to local ballot measures that shape schools, safety, and infrastructure. Even if your state isn’t voting this year, we’re only 14 months away from the 2026 midterms, and the work to protect democracy starts now.

One big reason to care? Redistricting. When voting maps are redrawn unfairly, they can split apart communities, dilute the political power of certain groups, and change who represents you. Those lines also help decide how much funding your neighborhood gets for schools, roads, and public services. The effects can last a decade; meaning, the action you take now will have long-term impact.

Below are six actions you can take to strengthen your voice in upcoming elections and protect fair representation.

1. Sign Up to Be a Poll Worker

Poll workers are the backbone of our voting system. They manage ballots, assist voters, and keep lines moving. Apply early so you can complete training on time, and help recruit others to serve, too.

2. Check Your Voter Registration

Even if you’ve voted before, double-check your registration status. Visit your state election website to confirm your name, address, and polling location, and update your registration if needed.

3. Help Others Get Registered

Democracy works best when everyone can participate. Ask friends and family if they’re registered. Offer help to register new voters or update existing registrations, and clarify local ID and polling requirements.

4. Know Your Voting Rights

Being prepared means understanding what to do if you’re challenged at the polls. Review your state’s voter rights and protection laws ahead of time. Have phone numbers or contacts ready for local election officials or voting rights hotlines.

5. Contact Your Elected Officials

Redistricting can quietly shift voting power away from some communities. Changes to district maps in places like Texas and California may reshape representation in the 2026 midterms and influence who makes decisions in your community.

Ask your local and state representatives:

• How are they addressing redistricting in advance of the midterms?
• What safeguards are being implemented to protect fair access to voting?
• How can everyday citizens engage meaningfully in the process?

6. Research and Support Candidates

Every election matters and informed engagement strengthens democracy.

Explore candidates’ platforms on issues you care about. Attend forums, ask questions, and get involved, whether through volunteering, amplifying their messages, or donating when appropriate.

Bottom line: Election integrity isn’t automatic. It depends on informed, proactive engagement, not just during election season, but all year long. Start now, and you’ll be ready to make every vote count in 2025, 2026, and beyond.