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Federal judge blocks AZ law that 'disenfranchised' Native voters; government shutdown could cost U.S. travel economy about $1 Billion per week; WA group brings 'Alternatives to Violence' to secondary students.

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Senator Robert Menendez offers explanations on the money found in his home, non-partisan groups urge Congress to avert a government shutdown and a Nevada organization works to build Latino political engagement.

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An Indigenous project in South Dakota seeks to protect tribal data sovereignty, advocates in North Carolina are pushing back against attacks on public schools, and Arkansas wants the hungriest to have access to more fruits and veggies.

Importance of Local Elections Highlighted in SD

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Wednesday, March 16, 2022   

On April 12, municipalities across South Dakota will be holding local elections. A statewide group is encouraging participation through an outreach effort geared for the state's largest city.

The group Leaders Engaged and Determined, also known as LEAD, is part of the Vote Sioux Falls initiative, which aims to get 200 new voters registered by March 28.

Melissa McCauley, head organizer at LEAD, said it's not just about casting a ballot but also being more informed about local candidates and issues.

"When you elect somebody, even to the city council, to the school board, it is impacting you all the time," said McCauley. "And so, to be engaged and to be able to have a voice is impactful."

She said that can impact what you pay in certain taxes, as well as redistricting. Even though state leaders approved new legislative boundaries last fall, local political lines also were redrawn and finalized.

In Sioux Falls, the City Council has the option to reject plans submitted by a special commission.

Civic engagement groups say participating in local democracy can shape the outcome of these functions down the road.

Redistricting happens every ten years to update political boundaries based on the latest Census data. Now that new lines are in place, McCauley said residents should ensure their voice is heard as key decisions are made over the next decade.

"Whether it be young, old, Republican, Democrat, we want you to participate," said McCauley. "And we're saying don't leave it up to luck because a lot of people, 'Oh, they'll vote the way I want.' Well, we don't know that."

As part of the outreach campaign in Sioux Falls, several downtown businesses are participating by having voter registration forms available. Additionally, more details can be found at votesiouxfalls.com.




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