Throughout the U.S, both Democrats and Republicans report that organized precincts turn out significantly more voters than precincts that are unorganized. This idea matches what we have seen here in Henderson County. Our organized precincts have higher Democratic turnout, smaller Republican margins, more volunteers and more donors.
In last year’s election, Henderson County had the biggest shift away from Trump of all counties in the state. It will likely take a few more voting cycles, but we are on the path to flipping the county Blue.
To make this happen, we need more organized precincts, which means we need more precinct officers.
What precinct officers do
Henderson County is divided into 35 voting districts—or precincts—in which everyone receives the same ballot on Election Day and is represented by the same officials at all levels. Precincts are the smallest unit of the Democratic Party, but they can have the biggest impact. People in these small areas are more likely to know and trust one another and understand what is important to their neighbors. Right now, 25 of our precincts are organized, which means it is easier for us to contact voters, build community, and increase turnout in these areas.
For a precinct to be organized, they need at least 8 registered Democrats to elect a precinct Chair, Vice Chair and Secretary/Treasurer.
These precinct officers make sure the Dems and Friends in their community know about issues and are aware of opportunities to get involved. They have a voice in the local party, and they offer two-way communication between the people and HCDP leadership.
In their own words
In the next few weeks, HCDP will spotlight several precinct officers to share why they accepted the challenge of being involved and what they’ve experienced in the role.
We’re starting with the following Q&A with Jack Robinson, Precinct Chair for Horse Shoe. Many thanks to Jack for taking on this important role. We hope you enjoy what he has to say!
Q&A with Jack Robinson
1. What is the main thing you have learned since becoming a precinct officer?
Precincts are the heart and soul of every political party. Democrats won't exercise real influence in Henderson County until we organize ALL our precincts.
2. What is most rewarding?
There are far more Democrats in our County than we appreciate. Some of them don't know they're Democrats, and others are still waiting to be convinced. But they're out there. We just haven't found them. But when we do, well, that's enough to make anyone's day.
3. Have you noticed an increase in community/engagement in your precinct?
Our precinct has made a real effort over the past few years to host more events and meet more voters on their doorstep. It takes time for the momentum to build, but now we're seeing the benefits. We shouldn't be surprised that people want to get together, talk and exchange ideas. We have become a house-bound, desk-tied, isolated society - but most of us are just dying to get together and talk.
4. What is the biggest challenge?
Asking people to help does not come naturally to most of us. But most of us want to be engaged. To pitch in and help. To contribute. We humans are social creatures, problem solvers, dreamers. One of these days we're going to hold a precinct event around a campfire on a clear night and just look at the stars ...
5. What made you say YES when you were asked to take on this responsibility?
I knew it was a job that needed doing. And as a relative newcomer, I thought it would be a great way to meet my neighbors and get to know my little Horse Shoe community. My hunch was correct. It's been much more fun than just staying home.
6. What else would you like to add?
Two things. First, I have the very best colleagues and friends in my fellow officers -- Karen Rodgers and Dorothy Donelson. I don't know how I got so lucky. Second, Horse Shoe precinct includes the nicest and most generous people in the world. Oddly enough, this is true for every precinct in the country. But you won't discover this until you put down the TV clicker and start knocking on strangers' doors.
More important than ever
Recent data shows that more and more voters are disengaging from organized parties and openly avoiding politics altogether. It’s easy to understand this trend, but with the GOP now openly acting as the party of antidemocratic oligarchs and foreign interests, it’s up to Democrats to educate and engage voters to protect our democratic systems and representative government. That means we have to have a strong party structure at all levels, and especially at the precinct level.
Are you interested in becoming involved with your precinct? You are invited to attend the Annual Precinct Meetings, to be held Saturday March 29, 11am, at West Henderson High School. This meeting will include electing precinct officers and making plans for the upcoming year. If you are unable to attend but would like to learn more about becoming active in your precinct, please email Jeannie Medlin (jeanniemedlin7@gmail.com), and she will get you in touch with people in your precinct.
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