Christian Activism in Local Elections

There are local elections coming up in my hometown, and in the process, I have been reflecting on the importance of local elections. I have realized how essential it is that Christians take an active role in ensuring that their city halls, aldermanic boards (or board of selectmen) and school boards are run by politicians committed to furthering the public interest. For example, in my town, I have seen two choices presented to me:

• A mayor, a board of alderman and a school board that will fight for greater accountability in public spending, better results from our local schools, sustainable economic growth and less crime, OR
• A mayor, board of alderman and a school board that will waste public funds, raise taxes to make up for their excesses, allow the local teacher's union hold complete reign over education policy with no concern for students, assemble pork barrel projects that will stifle economic growth and come to the aid of my city's slumlords.

Local elections are notorious for getting little attention from the average voter. This has allowed my town to fall to shambles. Slums are growing out of control, and our schools have stopped serving our students. What is most appalling, our representatives are neglecting their constituents' concerns! Numerous residents have shared with me that they can never access a number of their so-called "representatives". I am proud to say that many people, Democrats and Republicans alike, tell me that our excellent Republican mayor is very accesible. To the Democrats' credit, I have noticed a few very concerned (conservative and moderate) Democrats who I am proud to say I am voting for! However, many great candidates do not stand a chance because the voters will not pay attention to their campaigns. People who hope to represent them the way they deserve will not be able to obtain office!

This alarming trend is the result of lax voter participation. I am certain that mine is not the only town were voters show widespread apathy to who is running town hall. This demonstrates that our democracy is becoming rapidly less representative of the public interest. I hope anyone reading this blog will stand with me in ending this modern day absurdity. I encourage you all to become local activists. It is one of the easiest ways to improve your government. Here are some suggestions:

1. Take some time to visit local election headquarters. These are usually easier to access that headquarters of state or national campaigns. You can meet the candidates and their advisors, so if they achieve office, you already have established a rapport with them which is great when a pressing issue arises and you want to lobby for a logical, useful solution the problem.
2. If you find a campaign you really like, volunteer there, at least for a few hours. You can help spark a movement in support of the rightful candidate(s)!
3. Call local officials to tell them what you think should be done about the budget, the school system, public safety, taxes, zoning policy, etc. Demand that they act in the public's best interest.
4. Attend meetings of the alderman, the school board or other public sessions to determine where your current representatives stand on local issues. If they out to support radical, selfish agendas, fight to unseat them in the next election cycle!
5. VOTE IN EACH AND EVERY LOCAL ELECTION! Even though these elections are not for federal positions, they are still just as important. Your participation is vital, and it may make a greater difference in American government since you are voting for people you know and trust. If the local officials you put into office perform well enough, they may have a political future as Congressman/Congresswoman, Senator, Governor or some other higher public office. It's a bottom-up effect!

After this past election, I resolve to be a local activist to the same degree that I am a state and national activist. I vow to allows seek out the most effective candidates who are committed to a representative government that cares about its people. I hope all will join me in my mission which I believe Christ would want us to fulfill.

Christianwarrior224