For years, VoteAmerica has been at the forefront of using billboards to energize and inform voters across the country. As a staunch advocate for democratic participation, we understand the power of visibility in shaping electoral engagement. However, our efforts to promote voter turnout come in stark contrast to the malicious use of billboards by those seeking to suppress it.
In 2012, a troubling trend emerged when hundreds of anti-voting billboards appeared in swing states such as Ohio and Wisconsin. These billboards, funded anonymously, were designed to intimidate and mislead voters in predominantly Black and brown neighborhoods, falsely “warning” them about voter fraud. The intent was clear: to suppress turnout and undermine democratic participation by spreading fear and misinformation.
VoteAmerica’s Pro-Voting Billboard Campaigns
In response to these suppression tactics, VoteAmerica has launched a robust and strategic pro-voting billboard initiative aimed at countering misinformation and encouraging voter engagement. Our approach focuses on making essential voting information accessible and visible to all eligible voters.
Past Successes
In 2022, we placed 208 billboards across Wisconsin, specifically targeting Milwaukee, Madison, and Racine. These billboards were strategically designed to promote the election date and highlight the importance of same-day voter registration. By focusing on Black voters in these key areas, our campaign aimed to enhance awareness and increase voter turnout.
Similarly, in 2019, we deployed over 200 billboards in Louisiana, Virginia, Mississippi, and Kentucky. This campaign successfully increased the likelihood of voter turnout by 1.6 percentage points, demonstrating the effectiveness of our targeted messaging.
Looking Ahead to 2024
As we approach the pivotal election year of 2024, our efforts are intensifying. We are planning to target highly competitive states such as Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. These states are crucial battlegrounds where our billboard campaigns will play a significant role in mobilizing voters and ensuring that every voice is heard.
Our billboard program is both cost-effective and impactful. On average, each billboard costs approximately $8,000 for a four-week period and can reach voters millions of times. This relatively low-cost investment delivers a high return by amplifying our pro-voting message and reaching a broad audience.
Combatting Voter Suppression
This election year is particularly critical, and the need to counteract voter suppression is more pressing than ever. The use of billboards by groups intent on discouraging voter participation underscores the importance of our pro-voting campaigns. By saturating the airwaves with positive, empowering messages about voting, we aim to drown out the fear-mongering tactics employed by those who seek to undermine our democratic process.
VoteAmerica is committed to ensuring that all eligible voters have the information and confidence they need to participate fully in the electoral process. Our billboard campaigns are a vital part of this effort, serving as a beacon of clarity and encouragement amid the noise of voter suppression.
As we move forward, we call on supporters and allies to join us in this critical mission. Together, we can ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to make their voice heard and that our democracy remains vibrant and inclusive.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to expand our billboard campaigns and work tirelessly to protect and promote the fundamental right to vote.