National politics get all the attention - but local elections quietly shape our everyday lives.
In this episode of Left of Midlife, we break down why state and local elections matter more than most people realize, what all those down-ballot offices actually do, and how power often concentrates in low-turnout races most voters skip or don't understand.
We talk primaries vs. general elections, why people tune out local politics, the real impact of straight-ticket voting, and how state legislatures influence everything from schools to courts to voting access. Most importantly, we talk about how normal people can get involved - without burning out or becoming a full-time political operative.
Because democracy isn't a vibe.
It's a verb.
And right now, participation matters more than ever.
