Dr. McLennan on ways women could change the political landscape

A crowd of 89 people from the surrounding community (including our friends from Caldwell Women Rise!) attended the August 13 lecture by Dr. David McLennan.  We began the lecture with a moment of silence for the victims in Charlottesville. The organization of Blowing Rock Per-Sisters absolutely denounces white supremacy and anti-semitism in all its forms, and we embrace love instead of hate. Dr. McLennan, a UVA alum, echoed similar sentiments.

For his lecture, Dr. McLennan walked through a range of data and research on voter interests and voting patterns. He suggested that candidates from either party who wish to succeed need to capitalize on their strengths in terms of what the voters indicate as priorities. Although some demographics of North Carolina indicate an increase in urban populations and ethnic diversity, these changes do not translate into changes in the polls unless candidates can connect with the voters' concerns.

He shared his belief that the American political system needs three major changes to increase democratic participation and outcomes: 1) end partisan and racial gerrymandering 2) support campaign finance reform, and 3) elect more women. His research indicates that when women run for office, they have higher than average chances to get elected. He noted that women must be asked at least 7 times before they are willing to run. Further, he added, "We see major changes when we see more women in office." A study of county commissions revealed that when more than 50% of the board is made up of women, there is an increase in spending on education, health care, and social services... and that result occurred regardless of party affiliation.

At the end of the lecture, he shared three action steps:
1. Connect actively with and mentor younger women (aka "Millennials --individuals born between 1982 and 2004) to help them get involved in politics.

He had shared data of the growing impact on elections that this age group represents and how they need to be inspired by the authenticity and integrity of any candidate. He did reassure us, as a group dominated by Baby Boomers, that we are all needed :).

2. Collaborate, collaborate, collaborate.

Power comes in numbers. We need to reach out and connect with like-minded groups across the state.

3. Keep working on civility.

The United States is suffering from the loss of civility and increasing polarization rather than our striving to work respectfully together for the common good.