Throughout history, meaningful change has rarely happened overnight. Expanding voting rights has taken countless years of dedication, persistence, and hard work. The same is true of building a more informed and engaged electorate. On Tuesday, Orange County voters made their voices heard! Nearly 60% of registered voters cast their ballots through Vote By Mail, early voting, or on Election Day. Our more than 70 AAP and Feed Our Precinct volunteers were out in force on Tuesday, covering seven precincts and helping make the election a success. Additionally, we had a team of 16 providing Election Protection resources at several precincts.
Our mission of Empowering Voters and Defending Democracy was truly in action this election season. Voter Services has worked tirelessly to register voters, provide election information, and communicate voting options throughout the community. We have devoted countless hours to tabling events, registering citizens, and providing information about amendments, referendums, and candidates. Vote411.org is an invaluable resource for voters, but its value depends on people knowing it exists. By educating voters about their voting options, the election calendar, and the importance of making a plan to vote, we have helped more members of our community become informed and prepared to cast their ballots.
This election season, Voter Services along with our community partners focused on three precincts with historically low voter turnout. Our efforts paid off! Turnout in these precincts increased from the low-to-mid 20% range to the low-to-mid 40% range in the midterm election. One precinct even exceeded 50% turnout! These numbers demonstrate that outreach, education, and a commitment to engaging voters can make a real difference. Voters had something to say, and they made sure their voices were heard.
All of this work took place against a backdrop of misinformation, disinformation, and efforts to confuse and discourage voters. We were not deterred. Instead, we continued to show up, provide accurate information, and shine a light on the truth and the importance of every vote.
Our work is far from finished. Important changes to Florida election laws take effect January 1, 2027, and voter education will be more important than ever. But for now, we can take a moment to celebrate what we have accomplished together. Every registration, every conversation, every volunteer hour, and every voter reached has contributed to a stronger democracy. Thank you to all our dedicated volunteers. Together, we are making a difference, one voter at a time.