Attacks on fair representation in GOP-majority state legislatures like in Alabama, Georgia and Louisiana may be facing a reckoning for their #gerrymandered #maps that violate the Voting Rights Act.
Newly implemented maps in these southern states could result in more equal opportunities for fair representation in their state houses and in Congress going forward. 
By encouraging and supporting young and diverse individuals to run for office, which is what we do every day at Run for Something, we can reshape the narrative of our political landscape.
In the face of significant challenges and too many lackluster federal candidates, our nation stands at a crossroads, and the solution lies in the hands of #new #leaders.
To truly transform our government, we must continue to elect young and diverse individuals to state and local offices in every state across the country. Together, we can build a government that works for everyone, where the collective power of our differences becomes our greatest strength.
With nearly 70% of races during the November 2022 midterm elections going uncontested, the time is ripe for the emergence of a new wave of motivated, passionate and young leaders.
In 2024, 41 million Gen Z members will be eligible to vote; their participation could catalyze a much-needed revolution in our political landscape. 
It is abundantly clear that the composition of the U.S. government does not mirror the diversity of the American people. Disparities persist in terms of age, race and LGBTQIA+ representation:
• The median age among Americans is 38 years old, yet the average age in the U.S. Senate is 63. 
• Only 20% of people serving in state legislatures are under 45 years old.
• The median age of school board members is 59 years old.
• Thirty of the 50 U.S. governors are 60 years old or older, and the average U.S. mayor of a major city is 58 years old.
• Among state legislators, only 33% are women, 10.5% are Black, 6% are Latino and 4% are Asian/Pacific Islander. 
• Nationwide, only 0.2% of elected officials publicly identify as LGBTQIA+. 

The absence of diverse representation has allowed predominantly white, male Baby Boomers to perpetuate a system that caters to their interests — from the highest echelons of government to municipal office.
This lack of younger and more diverse representation has failed to address pressing issues, such as #gun violence, #housing costs and #climate change.
Young and diverse leaders, being closer to these problems, are also closer to the innovative and effective solutions needed for progress.
Recent findings from the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) show that at least 20% of young people would consider running for office.
These emerging leaders are tired of empty promises and mere lip service on vital issues from those in power. They are ready to step into positions of influence and take on the responsibility of bringing about tangible change.
By electing individuals who understand the issues at a personal and community level, we can bridge the gap between the governed and the governing, fostering a more responsive and inclusive government.

https://www.democracydocket.com/opinion/redefining-politicians-in-2024/

#RunForSomething

https://runforsomething.net