On-Cycle Elections
Syncing Local, State, and Federal Election Days
The Gap
Off-cycle elections routinely see low turnout. When states run state and local elections separately from the federal election calendar, an unrepresentative subset often chooses election winners for offices like governor, mayor, state legislator, sheriff, county board, and more.
The Solution
States align their state and local elections with “on-cycle” federal elections.
How It Works
States with elections in odd years can shift these elections to on-year schedules, significantly increasing turnout. Alternatively, states that currently mandate local elections in odd-years can give cities discretion to move elections to even years if they wish.
Polling finds consistent support for on-cycle elections across party lines. Why? Because on-cycle elections save money, promote government efficiency, and bolster healthy turnout.
Why Responsive Gov Cares
Moving to on-cycle elections is a pragmatic change that saves costs, promotes efficiency, and boosts turnout in elections while streamlining the voting experience.
Having multiple elections also uses up precious time and resources for election officials. Each standalone Election Day requires burdensome preparations, from ballot design to staffing and training poll workers. Combining state and local elections with federal elections streamlines work and saves money.
