The Importance of Down-Ballot Races
As we approach the upcoming election season, it’s easy to get caught up in the high-profile races for governor, senator, or president. However, the down-ballot races – those for state and local offices – often fly under the radar, despite their critical importance to our communities. These down-ballot races have a direct impact on issues like water and sanitation services, community development, environmental protection, and more.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the key down-ballot races you should be paying attention to this election season and why they matter for water and sanitation advocacy. By understanding the candidates and their positions on these crucial issues, you can make informed decisions at the polls and help shape the future of your community.
Races to Watch: North Carolina State and Local Elections
North Carolina Supreme Court
One of the most significant down-ballot races in North Carolina this year is for the state’s Supreme Court. The court currently has a 5-2 Republican majority, and the outcome of this election could shift the balance of power on the state’s highest court.
The candidates are Democratic incumbent Justice Allison Riggs and Republican challenger Jefferson Griffin. Riggs is a former civil and voting rights attorney who has been outspoken about protecting abortion rights and upholding the rule of law. Griffin, a “constitutional conservative,” has criticized Riggs for allegedly advancing a liberal agenda through the courts and has voiced his belief that racial bias does not exist in the criminal justice system.
The makeup of the North Carolina Supreme Court is crucial for water and sanitation issues, as the court may be called upon to interpret and apply state laws and regulations related to these topics. A court with a conservative majority could potentially be more deferential to the interests of industry over environmental protection or community needs.
North Carolina Attorney General
The race for North Carolina Attorney General is another down-ballot contest to keep an eye on. Democratic U.S. Representative Jeff Jackson is running against Republican U.S. Representative Dan Bishop.
The attorney general is the state’s chief legal advisor, providing guidance to the governor, legislature, and other state officials. Jackson has emphasized the importance of bipartisanship and doing what’s “right on behalf of the people,” while Bishop has a history of conservative stances, including voting against funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) before a major hurricane.
The attorney general’s office plays a significant role in enforcing environmental and public health regulations, as well as defending the state against lawsuits related to water and sanitation issues. The outcome of this race could impact the state’s approach to these critical concerns.
North Carolina Secretary of State
The race for North Carolina Secretary of State also deserves attention. Incumbent Democrat Elaine Marshall is running against Republican challenger Chad Brown, the chair of the Gaston County Board of Commissioners.
The secretary of state oversees the state’s economy and businesses, including the regulation of water and wastewater utilities. Marshall has championed efforts to cut red tape and streamline processes, while Brown has expressed support for conservative “faith-based initiatives.”
The secretary of state’s office does not directly manage elections, but the political leanings of the officeholder could influence how they engage with and respond to concerns from citizens and community groups regarding water and sanitation issues.
North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction
Another key down-ballot race is for the position of North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction, which oversees the state’s public school system. Democratic candidate Maurice “Mo” Green, a former school district superintendent, is running against Republican candidate Michele Morrow, a former nurse and homeschool teacher who has made headlines for her extremist social media posts.
The superintendent’s role in directing the $11 billion budget for public education and setting curriculum standards is crucial for water and sanitation education and outreach. A superintendent with a strong environmental and public health focus could ensure that students learn about the importance of clean water, proper sanitation, and sustainable practices.
Local Races to Watch: Mecklenburg County, North Carolina
While state-level races are important, it’s also crucial to pay attention to down-ballot races at the local level, such as those for the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners. These races have a direct impact on issues like infrastructure funding, community development, and environmental protection.
In Mecklenburg County, several commissioner seats are up for grabs, with Democrats facing off against Republicans in competitive races. These include the contests for Districts 1, 2, 5, and 6. The outcomes of these local races will shape the county’s priorities and decision-making on a range of issues, including water and sanitation services, affordable housing, and transportation infrastructure.
The Impact of Down-Ballot Races
Down-ballot races may not grab headlines the way the high-profile contests do, but they have a significant impact on the day-to-day lives of community members. The officials elected to these positions will make decisions that directly affect water quality, sanitation infrastructure, environmental protection, and more.
By taking the time to research the candidates and their positions on these crucial issues, you can make informed choices at the polls and help ensure that your community’s water and sanitation needs are addressed. Remember, every vote counts, and the cumulative impact of engaged citizens can make a real difference in the outcome of these down-ballot races.
To learn more about the candidates and their positions, be sure to visit the Joint Action for Water website, which provides comprehensive information and resources to support informed decision-making. Together, we can work to create a future where all communities have access to clean, reliable water and sanitation services.
