The role of state-level policy on issues like abortion rights and civil rights has major national ramifications. While states’ rights have typically been championed by conservatives, they now offer Democrats the best opportunity to protect democracy and expand key rights. The current bias in the federal system toward whiter, more rural, and more conservative areas, as seen in the Electoral College, Senate, and Supreme Court, has led to a situation where state-level activism is critical for progressive reform.
One promising national model for state-level activism is Michigan, where activists have successfully challenged minority rule and expanded democratic rights. A movement for redistricting reform led by Katie Fahey and the group Voters Not Politicians resulted in the establishment of an independent citizens commission to draw political districts. Subsequent ballot initiatives expanded voter access, combated election subversion, and enshrined rights to reproductive freedom and recreational marijuana in the state Constitution.
The success of these pro-democracy measures in Michigan led to a shift from minority rule to majority rule, with Democrats gaining control of the Legislature for the first time in 40 years. Voter turnout reached record levels, demonstrating the power of state-level activism to transform politics. However, challenges remain, as lawmakers frequently attempt to undermine popular initiatives through restrictive measures aimed at limiting participation in the democratic process.
State constitutions offer a pathway toward expanding democracy that is currently unavailable at the federal level. The responsiveness of state-level institutions to popular majorities provides an opportunity for both progressive and conservative forces to shape policy. Organizing around important state-level democracy issues such as gerrymandering, ballot access, and election subversion can have major implications for national politics, boosting voter engagement and turnout in presidential elections.
The Michigan model serves as a potential testing ground for other purple states where Democrats have a chance to win, despite Republican control of state legislatures. By engaging more voters in the political process and restoring legitimacy to democracy, Democrats can benefit from increased turnout among disaffected liberals. State-level activism has the power to protect key rights and shape the political landscape heading into the 2024 election.
Overall, the fight for democracy and progressive reform is shifting to the states, where popular initiatives and state constitutions offer opportunities for meaningful change. By focusing on state-level activism, Democrats can engage more voters, promote democracy, and ensure that the will of the people is reflected in policy decisions. The lessons learned from Michigan’s success story provide a blueprint for how state-level activism can drive positive change and reshape the political landscape in the United States.
