By Rayna Young, MPP, Center for Policy Analysis and Research
With just one week until the 2024 Election, anxiety is sweeping the country. Our democracy faces multiple challenges. Disinformation is rampant across social media. The January 6 insurrection following the 2020 election left millions shaken. Now, after two assassination attempts on former President Donald Trump, concerns about political violence loom. But what are Black Americans’ specific concerns?
At the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s (CBCF) 53rd Annual Legislative Conference, our Center for Policy Analysis and Research (CPAR) surveyed attendees on their top concerns about the 2024 Election. The leading issues that respondents, representing over 25 states, rated as “Somewhat Concerning” or “Very Concerning” were:
These concerns underscore the perceived threats to the integrity and fairness of our electoral process. While respondents were less worried about their personal voting experiences, many were concerned about others facing intimidation or having their ballots invalidated. Many of the personal stories shared with us highlighted voter suppression efforts, such as North Carolina purging 747,000 voters from its rolls since 2023 or Georgia’s law that criminalizes providing water to voters waiting in line. However, there have also been positive updates, like judges pausing Georgia’s water restriction law for review and record early voting turnout in North Carolina despite the recent challenges posed by Hurricane Helene.
To help voters navigate this landscape, the CBCF has launched a Voting Rights Scorecard. It evaluates 15 states with the largest Black populations on criteria like early voting, voter ID laws, access to polling places, and felon disenfranchisement. Share the scorecard with your friends and family who live in states with restrictive laws, and ensure they have the tools to guarantee their voices are heard in this pivotal election.
Despite their concerns, our survey found that Black voters are ready to turn out in force. Over 95% of respondents said they had a plan to vote, with many committed to civic engagement beyond the ballot box, like driving voters to the polls or serving as poll workers. However, only 48% plan to vote early, which means many could face long lines on Election Day.
On October 29, National Vote Early Day, we urge you to vote early if your state allows. If you have already voted, encourage at least three others to do the same. Use the Calls to Action below to ensure you and your loved ones are prepared and informed to cast your ballots.
Calls to Action
- Voting Rights Toolkit: Get informed about the voting process with our comprehensive guide, offering essential information on voter registration, key deadlines, and your rights at the polls.
- Voting Rights Scorecard: See how your state measures up on voting rights and electoral access and compare it to other states in our scorecard.
- Voter Resources: Unsure of your registration status? Need to locate your polling place? Visit vote.org/cbcf for key information.
- Ballot Research: Learn about the candidates and referenda in your area at vote411.org.
- Voter Protection: If you encounter intimidation at the polls, call the Election Protection Hotline at 1-866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683). Volunteers are ready to help.
- Prepare for Election Day: If voting in person, bring snacks, water, and patience. Expect long lines but remember: if you are in line before polls close, you are permitted to vote, even after closing time.
- Combat Disinformation: If you see unverified information on social media, consult a trusted source. If it’s false, report it.
Many are understandably anxious about this election, but fear cannot stop us from exercising our democratic rights. Know your rights, use available resources, and claim your power by voting.