Every election matters.

It’s easy to focus on races for President or Congress, but many of the decisions that affect working people are made much closer to home. From the school board and city council to county commissioners, state legislators, governors, members of Congress, and the U.S. Senate, every elected official has a role in shaping the laws and policies that impact our jobs, our communities, and our families.

For union members, voting is one of the most important ways to have a voice outside the workplace.

ALL Politics Is Local

The phrase “all politics is local” has endured because it’s true.

Local elected officials decide how communities grow, invest in infrastructure, support public services, and develop workforce training programs. State legislators determine labor laws, prevailing wage protections, workers’ compensation rules, unemployment benefits, and public employee rights. Members of Congress vote on issues ranging from workplace safety and retirement security to infrastructure investments, trade policy, and labor protections.

The people elected at every level of government help shape the environment in which working people earn a living.

Learn Where Candidates Stand

Before you cast your ballot, take time to learn about the candidates running in your community.

Many state AFL-CIO organizations, Central Labor Councils, and affiliated unions evaluate candidates based on issues affecting working people and publish endorsements or voter guides before elections. These resources can help members better understand where candidates stand on workplace issues and labor priorities.

Your own international union or local union may also distribute endorsements, voting information, or educational materials for races in your area.

Know Your Voting Information

Election rules vary from state to state. Before Election Day, make sure you know:

  • Whether you’re registered to vote.
  • Your polling location.
  • Whether your state offers early voting or vote-by-mail.
  • What identification, if any, you’ll need.
  • The hours your polling place is open.

Your state’s election office is the best source for official voting information. Nonpartisan organizations such as Vote.org also provide tools to check registration status, locate polling places, and review voting deadlines

Connect with the Labor Movement

State AFL-CIO federations and local Central Labor Councils play an important role during election season.

They often provide:

  • Voter guides and endorsements.
  • Volunteer opportunities.
  • Labor walks and phone banks.
  • Information about important local races.
  • Election updates and reminders.
  • Getting involved is a great way to meet other union members while helping educate working people about the election process.
  • Make Your Voting Plan
  • Research shows that people who make a voting plan are more likely to cast their ballot.

Ask yourself:

  • Am I registered to vote?
  • Do I know what’s on my ballot?
  • Will I vote early, by mail if available, or on Election Day?
  • Where is my polling place?
  • What time will I vote?
  • Do I need childcare or transportation?
  • Can I remind a friend, coworker, or family member to vote too?

Having a plan removes uncertainty and makes it easier to follow through.

Your Voice Matters

Every election helps shape the future of our workplaces and our communities.

Whether the office on the ballot is city council, county commissioner, school board, governor, Congress, or the United States Senate, the decisions made by elected officials affect working people every day.

When union members stay informed, participate in the process, and make a plan to vote, they strengthen not only their own voice but the collective voice of working families across America.