Why Local Elections Matter More Than Ever as Presidential Election Approaches

As the next presidential election cycle looms, much of the focus is understandably on national politics. However, it's crucial to remember that local elections, which often take place in the years leading up to the presidential election, have an outsized impact on our daily lives and deserve as much attention. Local elections determine leadership positions that influence schools, public safety, housing, and economic policies—all of which shape the fabric of communities like Milwaukee.

Local elections directly affect community issues. While presidential elections determine national policy, local elections shape decisions on education, infrastructure, public health, and law enforcement, areas that have an immediate effect on your day-to-day life. The people you elect to city councils, school boards, and county boards determine how funds are allocated, which projects are prioritized, and how laws are enforced.

Moreover, local elections lay the groundwork for national policy. Many major political movements begin at the local level. Whether it’s reforming police practices, addressing climate change, or raising the minimum wage, local elected officials can set trends that influence national conversations. By voting in local elections, citizens can advocate for policies that may eventually gain traction on the national stage.

Local officials are generally more accessible to the public than national leaders, offering opportunities for more direct involvement in the political process. Attending city council meetings or reaching out to your local representatives is much easier than gaining the attention of federal lawmakers, making local politics more responsive to your needs.

Recent Local Elections in the Milwaukee Area Since 2022

Several local elections have taken place in the Milwaukee area since 2022, with a notable focus on city council and school board races. For instance, the 2022 Milwaukee Common Council election saw several incumbents re-elected, but also a few high-profile changes, such as the election of a new alderperson in District 5. These elections typically have lower voter turnout compared to presidential cycles, which raises concerns about civic engagement in critical local decision-making.

In the Milwaukee County Board elections of 2022, voter turnout ranged from 20% to 30% in most districts, a stark contrast to the 2020 presidential election turnout, which saw approximately 72% voter participation across Milwaukee County. This disparity highlights the fact that fewer voters are deciding who governs on a local level, despite the significant impact these officials have on local policies.

How Much Your Vote Matters in Local Elections

One of the most important reasons to vote in local elections is how much your individual vote matters. In presidential elections, your vote is one among millions, and while it is crucial for the democratic process, the likelihood of an election being decided by a single vote is almost non-existent. However, in local elections, races are often won by razor-thin margins.

For example, in the 2022 Milwaukee school board race for District 4, the election was decided by just 133 votes. In smaller local races, especially those for city councils and school boards, outcomes can come down to a few dozen or even a handful of votes, making each individual voter’s participation significantly more impactful.

According to a study by the National Civic League, local elections have a much lower average margin of victory—often under 10%, compared to the 20-30% margins in many presidential elections. Additionally, local election turnout is consistently lower, meaning that a small, engaged group of voters can greatly influence the outcome.

The Case for Increased Engagement

The sharp difference in turnout between local and national elections suggests that many voters are not engaging with issues that directly affect them. Local elections give voters the chance to shape policies that impact daily life in a way that national elections do not. As the 2024 presidential election nears, now is the perfect time for citizens to pay attention to their local elections and recognize the outsized role these votes play.

In Milwaukee, the local elections since 2022 have dealt with issues including education, crime, housing, and public health. The officials elected during these cycles will continue to shape the city's trajectory as we approach the next national election. The more engaged the public is, the more likely their local governments will reflect the needs and desires of the community as a whole.

As we gear up for another presidential election, it's easy to focus solely on national politics. But local elections, especially those happening in cities like Milwaukee, have a profound influence on the issues that matter most to your daily life. From public safety to education and economic development, local elected officials play a critical role in shaping our communities. Your vote in these elections matters more than ever, and by participating, you can ensure your voice is heard on the issues closest to home.