
November 17, 2009
Observations and Comments about the Nov. 3rd General Election
With a population of over 7600 residents, DuPont has only 3585 registered voters. As of this date only 1560 ballots were casted.
Why such a low voter turn-out?
1. Not all DuPont registered voters are currently residing within the city boundaries. I personally visited over 95% of the addresses given for our local voters and a large percentage of the homes were either vacant or the registered voter no longer lives there. Changes just have not been recorded.
2. Many registered voters, who actually live here, did not participate.
Why the voter apathy?
a. Lack of interest and/or other priorities took precedence.
b. Absentee ballots were lost, misplaced or forgotten.
c. An attitude that their vote would not make a difference
d. Some position had only one candidate so why bother.
e. Lack of information about election issues and candidates.
So, what does this really mean about our election results?
The voting choices of a minority of our DuPont citizens can determine city policy and in some cases even school district election results. This basic core of engaged registered voters are making decisions and establishing directions for all of DuPont.
Recognizing this reality, I would like to recommend several suggestions.
1. Encourage multiple candidates for each office.
2. Participate in conversations on issues, goals, values, etc
3. Support efforts to publicize the importance of the election and possible outcomes.
4. Congratulate all the candidates and sponsors of issues in providing us with choices and alternatives.
5. Financially support candidates and issues which are compatible with your beliefs, values, and perspectives.
