Tens of millions of Americans, often referred to as “low-propensity voters,” did not cast a vote in the 2020 election. These voters, who never or rarely participate in general elections, could play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the upcoming presidential race. Both the Biden and Trump campaigns are focusing on reaching out to these disaffected voters to increase their support and chances of victory. Biden’s campaign has already established a broad organizing network, aiming to connect with voters on a personal level and highlight Biden’s policy record as well as his empathetic and stable leadership.
Despite his initial disillusionment with the political system, Davante Jennings has become an active participant in the political process, working as a top aide to a Georgia state lawmaker and volunteering for the New Georgia Project to recruit potential voters. He emphasizes the importance of reaching out to communities that feel marginalized and overlooked by the traditional political establishment. By engaging with voters on a personal level and addressing their concerns, Jennings believes it is possible to build trust and encourage participation in the electoral process.
Both Biden and Trump owe their past election victories to disaffected, sporadic voters who often feel unrepresented by mainstream politics. While Democrats tend to attract younger and nonwhite voters, Republicans have seen an increase in support among white voters without college degrees. Trump’s appeal lies in his ability to connect with voters on issues such as the economy, immigration, and values, drawing people to him despite his fundraising and organizing deficits compared to Biden. Jennings acknowledges that some nonwhite voters are intrigued by Trump’s anti-establishment rhetoric, seeing him as a break from the status quo.
In his efforts to engage with potential voters, Jennings focuses on addressing basic quality of life issues such as job opportunities, access to healthcare, and affordable food. By emphasizing the importance of voting and connecting issues to the ballot box, Jennings hopes to inspire greater participation in the electoral process. He emphasizes the importance of consistency and personal connection in building trust with skeptical nonvoters, sharing his own story and experiences to demonstrate the impact of political engagement on everyday problems.
Jennings highlights the need for political outreach that transcends traditional party and demographic lines, advocating for a more inclusive approach to democracy. By empowering voters and acknowledging the limitations of traditional political techniques, organizations like the New Georgia Project aim to cultivate a more engaged and representative electorate. Through personal engagement, volunteerism, and community-led discussions, Jennings and his fellow activists hope to reshape the political landscape and encourage greater participation from all segments of society.
In the lead-up to the upcoming presidential election, both the Biden and Trump campaigns are focusing on mobilizing disaffected and sporadic voters to secure victory. By emphasizing personal connection, policy records, and community organizing, these campaigns aim to reach out to voters who feel alienated by the political process. Davante Jennings’ journey from disillusionment to activism serves as a testament to the transformative power of political engagement and the importance of reaching out to marginalized communities. As the election approaches, the efforts of activists like Jennings will play a crucial role in shaping the future of American democracy.
