Ordinary Citizens, Extraordinary Impact: How You Can Help This Election Year

2026 is a midterm election year — and while midterms do not always grab headlines, their impact is enormous. These elections shape Congress, state leadership, and local decision-making that directly affects our daily lives. History shows voter turnout often drops in midterm years. The League exists to help make sure it does not.

The good news is that you do not need to hold public office or be a political expert to make a meaningful difference. Ordinary citizens play a powerful role in strengthening democracy, especially during election years.

Civic engagement goes beyond casting a ballot.
Voting is essential, but participation does not stop on Election Day. Attending community meetings, staying informed, having thoughtful conversations, and supporting nonpartisan civic organizations all help build a healthier democracy. Engagement creates accountability and keeps our institutions responsive to the people they serve.

Serving as a poll worker matters.
Poll workers are the backbone of our elections. They help voters check in, explain procedures, and ensure polling locations run smoothly. A positive, well-run polling place can make the difference between someone voting once and becoming a lifelong voter.

Help others register and prepare to vote.
Many eligible voters miss elections simply because they are not registered, have outdated information, or are unsure of the process. Sharing official, nonpartisan resources and reminding friends, family, and neighbors to check their registration status can have a direct impact on turnout.

Support nonpartisan voter engagement efforts.
Helping educate voters about when, where, and how to vote strengthens confidence in the electoral process. Nonpartisan voter education ensures people can participate fully without pressure or persuasion.

Encourage the next generation of voters.
Civic habits form early. Supporting youth voter registration, preregistration efforts, and civic education helps build a culture of participation that lasts well beyond a single election cycle.

Talk about voting.
Sometimes the simplest actions matter most. Talking openly about voting, sharing election dates, and reminding others about deadlines can encourage participation. When voting feels normal and expected, more people show up.

In a midterm year, democracy depends on everyday people choosing to stay engaged. By showing up, sharing accurate information, volunteering time, and encouraging others to participate, ordinary citizens help ensure that every voice has the opportunity to be heard.

Local Government Meeting Schedules

• County Council Meeting: 2nd Tuesday of every month at 8:30a, Tippecanoe County Building
• County Commissioners Meeting: 1st and 3rd Monday of every month at 10a, Tippecanoe County Building
• West Lafayette City Council: 1st Monday of every month at 6:30p, Margerum City Hall
• Lafayette City Council: 1st Monday of every month at 6:00p, Lafayette City Hall

NOTE: All meetings are subject to change or cancellation, so check before attending.

Barb Clark, Exec-Business organization@leaguelafayette.org

Lori Miller, Exec-Advocacy/Outreach advocacy@leaguelafayette.org

Beth Jones, Exec-Events/Public Educ events@leaguelafayette.org  

Susanne Mort, Treasurer treasurer@leaguelafayette.org  

Amy Bolman French, Secretary secretary@leaguelafayette.org

Lynn Wood, Comms Dir & The Voter Editor communications@leaguelafayette.org

Sallie Fahey, TriChair Env Sustainability envt_sustain@leaguelafayette.org

Kay Nannet, Membership membership@leaguelafayette.org

Taylor Flanery, Voter Services voterservices@leaguelafayette.org