The article “Seattle Council sends Democracy Voucher renewal to August ballot,” (April 23, Information) misses key context about this system’s success and the explanations behind fluctuations in participation.
First, the declare that participation stays “stubbornly low” is deceptive. With regards to marketing campaign donations, Seattle now leads all different main cities in resident participation because of democracy vouchers. Extra individuals are giving — and candidates are listening to from a broader cross-section of our group — as a result of this system unlocked a system as soon as dominated by rich donors and out-of-city pursuits. The article overlooks this transformational shift.
Second, evaluating year-over-year participation with out contemplating what else is on the poll is flawed. The drop in 2023 displays a broader decline in voter turnout and the absence of high-profile citywide races like mayor or metropolis legal professional. Participation additionally dips when candidates hit their fundraising caps — residents can’t give extra as soon as that restrict is reached. That’s not a failure; it’s a characteristic. Shifting candidate focus from elevating cash to participating volunteers is sweet for democracy.
At a time when democracy faces unprecedented threats, Seattle should proceed to steer. The Democracy Voucher Program is properly definitely worth the funding.
Estevan Muñoz-Howard, Seattle
