DLCC uses relational organizing to engage voters
In 2022, the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee (DLCC) adopted a "Path to The Majority" strategy, focusing on state legislatures and using relational organizing to engage voters on critical issues.
The DLCC partnered with Empower Project, to successfully protect Democratic majorities, flip and build relational networks in chambers in key states. These victories serve as a crucial defense against right-wing policies, particularly in safeguarding abortion rights and protecting democracy.
The DLCC is responsible for recruiting, training, and supporting local Democrats in state legislatures. In preparation of an anticipated wave of conservative funding and attacks on abortion rights, the DLCC strategized to shift the focus to state legislatures as the battleground for reproductive rights.
Goals and Objectives
The DLCC's primary goal was to break the historical trend of the party in power losing legislative chambers during midterms. Their Path to The Majority strategy aimed to maximize momentum by addressing attacks on abortion rights and leveraging relational organizing to engage voters on complex issues.
The DLCC partnered with Empower Project to roll out support to caucuses and candidates across the country by integrating a new style of organizing at the local level. Relational organizing centers on training volunteers to reach out to their friends and family to share personal stories about the issues that matter most to them. With most legislative races being decided by a handful of votes, this partnership was instrumental in helping candidates push for progress.
Challenges
The DLCC confronted significant challenges, including:
Onslaught of external conservative funding
Misleading advertising
Attacks on reproductive rights following the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v Wade
Solution and Strategy
The DLCC, in partnership with Empower Project, introduced relational organizing as a key strategy. This involved training volunteers to engage friends and family in personal conversations about critical issues. Additionally, the DLCC implemented a three-pronged approach, combining data analytics, innovative technology, and strategic organizing to protect Democratic gains, challenge GOP majorities, and build power for future cycles.
Results
The DLCC's strategy paid off, preventing any legislative chamber from flipping to Republicans and flipping chambers in Michigan, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania. These victories also served as a critical defense to reproductive freedoms for over 165 million Americans and ensured Democratic control of states with nearly 270 electoral votes.
The historic wins achieved by the DLCC, in partnership with Empower Project and dedicated candidates and volunteers, underscore the significance of strategic planning, relational organizing, and a commitment to critical issues. While acknowledging the long road ahead, these victories represent a promising start in securing Democratic parity in state legislatures and defending the values of freedom.
