Measuring Victories in the Final Days of the Election

Regardless of what happens on election night, there is still plenty to celebrate

When the election concludes, there's a primary goal we all aim for. However, here in the Palmetto State, there are many positive aspects to consider when interpreting the results. I always advise candidates (including myself) and county party chairs to take a moment in the election's final days to reflect on the process and consider what measurable wins can be taken away, regardless of the outcome at the ballot box. So, our dear subscribers, I encourage you to do the same. Allow me to guide you:

• Increased voter turnout: Any time more people participate in the election process, it’s a win. Here in South Carolina, with population growth in key areas, this election will help us as a state party identify the valid base number of Democratic supporters across the state. This helps with strategy and organizing moving forward.

• The choice on the ballot: When candidates do the hard thing in running for office, their community benefits. Not only is there increased voter turnout, as explained above, but it also helps the party gain critical data and information about the base of our voter support. Voters who have never had a choice on their ballot, who have had to skip races entirely or write someone in, benefit by knowing they are not automatically ending up with the status-quo incumbent.

• Pushing Republican incumbents: When they run unopposed, they do not have to answer for their votes, spend money, or talk with constituents. When they face opposition, they have to do all three. And, depending on the ferocity of their opponent, they may have to do a lot of that. You’re seeing it play out in real-time as incumbents like William Timmons are caught on their heels during a debate or when incumbent Statehouse Representatives send out two-page letters addressing the claims of their opponents. 

• Building electoral power: When incumbents know they have to defend their voting record in an election, they are more likely to think twice before sponsoring a bill or voting a certain way. They may also be more inclined to respond to constituent concerns or commentary on how they would like that elected official to vote. This is a benefit during contentious legislative debates.

• Being a presence in the community: When incumbents know they have a strong opponent, they may feel pressure to show up more in the community to campaign and hear from voters. This allows constituents to share their opinions with their elected official and makes the incumbent work to earn each vote. This also feeds into the benefits explained above and helps community organizations feel supported.

• Down-ballot impact/reverse coattails: In a state like South Carolina, we know how our electoral votes will be cast for the presidential race; however, with the added excitement at the top of the ticket and community members aware of the fact that they have competitive down-ballot options, we have the opportunity to have some “surprise” pick-ups in our state legislature, municipal races, and school boards.

• Replicating Georgia and North Carolina: Georgia did not elect two Democratic US Senators overnight and turned blue for 2020. It took years of building the infrastructure needed to see that victorious result. You are seeing this cycle again in North Carolina—strong statewide candidates and competitive legislative races coupled with an energy boost by their state party chair heading into every corner of the state give NC a chance to go blue in 2024. I often hear, “Why can’t we be like them?” Well, we can be! You should consider this part of the foundational base that will allow us to build up for years to come. By supporting our local candidates, no matter what, you help pave the way for more strong candidates and campaigns to follow in cycles to come.

Do not despair when results don’t go your way. In this state, the odds are good they won’t most of the time. However, that doesn’t mean all is lost. Keep some perspective and faith in a year with a lot on the line at every level of your ballot. And be proud of all we’ve accomplished!