By Jennifer Rubin, November 13, 2022, The Washington Post
First, Democrats made major inroads into “the youth vote.” Turnout among voters under 30 was the highest in three decades. Pennsylvania race, 70 percent of voters between the ages 18 and 29 cast their ballots for Democratic Senate nominee John Fetterman, while Fetterman won support from 55 percent of those between the ages 30 and 44.
Second, women turned out in force to support Democrats. 72 percent of women ages 18-29 voted for Democrats in House races nationwide.
First, courts have proved adept at heading off election-related shenanigans. For example, democracy defenders in Arizona succeeded in obtaining an injunction against right-wing groups menacing drop box locations.
Second, massive early voting demonstrated the ability of voters to adjust to new election rules. nearly 47 million early votes were cast this year.
Third, low turnout in competitive midterm contests is no longer the norm.
Fourth, younger voters have learned to show up at midterm elections, boding well for the health of democracy and progressive values. The Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement at Tufts University found that “27% of young people (ages 18-29) turned out to vote in the 2022 midterm election and helped decide critical races, wielding the growing power of a generation that is increasingly engaged even as many remain disillusioned about U.S. politics.”
Fifth, there were a number of “firsts” on Election Day. election of the first openly lesbian governors (Maura Healey in Massachusetts and Tina Kotek in Oregon) and the first African American governor of Maryland (Wes Moore). The country will also have a record number of female governors.
Sixth, the movement for women’s autonomy has arguably never been more energized. All five ballot measures on abortion during the midterms resulted in losses for the forced-birth crowd.
Finally, the Republican Party might finally be tiring of Donald Trump. The former president is a loser. The primary candidates he picked are losers. No election denier running for governor or secretary of state in a swing state won.
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