Election Retrospective

While we are still reeling from the results of the general election many of us are reflecting on why we did not capture so many of our state races and Issue 1. While we understood that Ohio voters would likely lean, once again, to the Republican presidential candidate, we still felt hopeful that our hard-working senator, Sherrod Brown would still prevail and that the sensible Issue 1 redistricting proposal would gain a majority of voters. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen for a variety of reasons.  

As we look ahead to the new administration and state legislature in 2025, the Upper Arlington Progressive Action board is planning our strategic response. While we anticipate focusing on defending against policies that threaten inclusivity and democratic values, including those outlined in Project 2025, we must also analyze why progressive voter turnout fell short. Our focus will be twofold: protecting civil rights and fundamental freedoms while also examining how to better engage both our base voters and swing voters in supporting moderate and progressive candidates."

So, what might be in store from UAPA in 2025 and beyond?

1. We will keep our members informed about critical emerging issues that may affect their lives through multiple channels. These include expert speakers, educational seminars, our regular newsletters and timely email alerts about the proposed policies and bills that would adversely affect our democracy and civil rights.
2. We don’t want our members to feel alone during these difficult times, so to foster community and connection, we plan hosting several social gatherings that bring together both new and longtime UAPA members.
3. We plan to develop targeted outreach programs to better understand voter motivations, particularly among swing voters and those who chose not to vote. These insights will help us strengthen our connection with diverse voter groups. We will share specific program details as they develop."
4. Going forward, UAPA wants to work more closely with other allied progressive groups not only in northwest Columbus, but also in other areas of metropolitan Columbus and communities beyond the outerbelt to help magnify our outreach and scale up our programming to our urban, suburban, and rural neighbors.

So, while many of us are still working through our disappointment and grief from the election, we must not just throw up our hands and walk away while Project 2025 is implemented. Remember, there is much chaos associated with MAGA and if we can work together, we can help stop some the most egregious elements of their programs, then work on the longer game to help bring back sensible government to our state and beyond.

If you have any ideas that can help support our mission, please contact us.