@lucas 24 October 2025 more from that month

Importance of VA and NJ’s Off-Year Elections

The eyes of the nation—and indeed, the world—are often fixed on Presidential and Midterm elections. Yet, this November, two states, Virginia and New Jersey, are holding vital statewide elections in an "off-year," proving that the path to a brighter, more common-sense future often runs right through local and state capitals. These contests are not merely local skirmishes; they are crucial battlegrounds that will determine the direction of two diverse and influential states, and their outcomes will send a clear message about the kind of governance Americans truly want. For those of us who feel a deep-seated desire to steer our nation back to a place of competence, stability, and respectful global leadership, encouraging every last vote in these states is a matter of patriotic necessity. What are "Off-Year" Elections and Why Do They Matter? Unlike the majority of states that hold their gubernatorial elections during the midterms, Virginia and New Jersey are among a small handful that elect their governors in the year after a Presidential election. This is what's known as an "off-year" election. Local Decisions with National Ripples The nature of these elections means they generally receive less media attention and consequently suffer from lower voter turnout. This is precisely why they are so important. When turnout is low, the power of a single, informed vote is amplified. These elections determine who controls the levers of power on critical, everyday issues that directly impact citizens' lives: *** Taxes and Affordability:** State governors and legislatures write the budgets, determine state income and property tax rates, and manage infrastructure spending—issues like the cost of living and energy affordability are top of mind for voters in both states. *** Education:** State governments set policies for public schools, including curriculum standards, funding levels, and parental rights—areas that are fiercely debated across the country. *** Infrastructure and Transit:** From the condition of local roads to the funding of major transit systems like NJ Transit, these decisions are made at the state level. The winner of the Virginia and New Jersey Governor's races, as well as the legislative majorities, will shape policy that affects millions and often sets precedents for other states to follow. The Stakes in Virginia: Governor and House of Delegates Virginia is electing its next Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Attorney General, along with all 100 seats in the House of Delegates. This election is a full reckoning for the commonwealth. The Gubernatorial Race: A Pivotal Choice

The contest for Governor pits two experienced leaders against one another: *** Abigail Spanberger (Democrat):** A former CIA officer and U.S. Congresswoman, Spanberger has centered her campaign on issues like lowering the cost of living, protecting energy affordability by investing in clean energy, and maintaining reproductive rights in the commonwealth. *** Winsome Earle-Sears (Republican):** The current Lieutenant Governor, Earle-Sears, a former Marine and state delegate, is campaigning on an agenda that focuses on economic growth, opposing rising energy costs, and addressing issues related to parental involvement in education and social policy. Beyond the Governor’s mansion, all seats in the House of Delegates are on the ballot. The control of this chamber is exceptionally narrow and the outcome will determine whether the Governor can easily pass their agenda. A change in party control would represent a major shift in state governance. The Stakes in New Jersey: Governor and Legislature In New Jersey, the election is focused on a new Governor, all seats in the State Senate, and all seats in the General Assembly. With the incumbent Governor term-limited, this is an open-seat race—a rare and significant opportunity to reset the state's leadership. The Gubernatorial Race: Seeking a New Direction

The candidates for New Jersey Governor are: *** Mikie Sherrill (Democrat):** A U.S. Congresswoman and former Navy pilot, Sherrill is running on a platform focused on making New Jersey more affordable, including addressing high property taxes, investing in infrastructure, and supporting education. *** Jack Ciattarelli (Republican):** A former State Assemblyman, Ciattarelli is running on a message of cutting taxes and spending, reducing the cost of living, and offering a significant departure from the current administration’s policies. New Jersey's high cost of living, taxes, and state debt are the dominant themes, making this race a referendum on how the state should manage its economic future. The legislative races are critical as they will determine if the new Governor will have a legislature that supports or obstructs their agenda. Your Call to Common Sense and Action

Democracy is not a spectator sport. The feeling of shame and sadness as we watch our country’s current path can only be overcome by taking action. The most fundamental action is casting a vote. If we wish to bring about change and restore a sense of common-sense competency to our government—a competency that will allow us to rebuild strong, respectful relationships with other nations—it starts with the building blocks of democracy: the state and local elections. To every American who shares this vision, we urge you to use your voice and platform to stress the importance of the Virginia and New Jersey elections. Encourage every voter you know in those states to not only register, but to make a concrete plan to vote in November. Even one vote—your vote, your neighbor's vote, a friend’s vote—is the bedrock of our democratic republic. Every single vote is a success. Let us ensure that this November, the states of Virginia and New Jersey lead the way toward a brighter American future.