Pamela,
As this year comes to a close, I want to talk about something close to home.
Here in Florida and across the country, we've always believed that voting should be simple, fair, and welcoming — no matter your age, background, or zip code. But lately, we're seeing more and more challenges that make participating in the voting process harder than it should be.
New restrictions on vote-by-mail, confusing rule changes, pressure on local election officials, and even attempts to intimidate voters are becoming more common across the country — and we're feeling those same pressures right here in [state].
One thing we've learned over the years is that protecting the right to vote in Florida doesn't begin on Election Day. It begins months — sometimes years — before the first ballot is cast.
That's why we're getting an early start on strengthening something that has become the heart of our work: Election Protection, built for and by the people of Rockledge and Florida.
In the 2024 presidential election, Common Cause ran our largest-ever nonpartisan voter-assistance program, and our volunteers here in Florida made an enormous difference — often quietly, one voter at a time.
Answering every hotline call. Reassuring any confused voters. Monitoring every polling place in Rockledge so everyone could cast a ballot with confidence. These small, steady acts of care are what keep our democracy strong.
But as we look toward the 2026 midterms—and as Trump and the GOP ramp up their attacks on voting rights—it's clear the need to protect elections will only grow.
If you agree Florida voters deserve a smiling, helpful, friendly face when they vote next year, then now's your chance to do something about it.
In 2026, we will be scaling up our Election Protection program and our ability to support voters by expanding:
This is practical, people-powered work — and it's how we make sure every eligible voter in Rockledge and across Florida can participate freely and confidently.
It costs about $50 to recruit, train, and equip one Election Protection volunteer here in Florida — someone who will stand up for their neighbors, answer hotline calls, monitor polling places, and make sure every eligible voter in Rockledge can cast a ballot freely and confidently.
Pamela, if you're able, I hope you'll consider chipping in $50 to sponsor a volunteer (or whatever you can spare) as we head into the new year. It's one of the most meaningful gifts you can give to our community — the gift of a democracy worth fighting for.
Thank you for everything you do — not just during elections, but all year long — to keep our democracy healthy, fair, and welcoming for everyone who calls Rockledge and Florida home.
With deep appreciation,
The team at Common Cause
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