As Americans woke up Wednesday morning, many were surprised to see races for the U.S. Congress did not pan out as the polls predicted.
Despite unexpected losses in federal races, Convention of States Action will move into 2023 with great success as a result of many pro-COS candidates winning seats in essential state legislative races.
As final results still trickle in for many races, it’s clear that grassroots GOTV efforts paid off in tight races!
In Ohio, House District 5 was won by a COS-supporting candidate by a mere 96 votes, subsequently kicking out the incumbent who was not an advocate of COS. With grassroots efforts also concentrated in Ohio’s Senate District 3, COS supporter Michele Reynolds prevailed in claiming victory.
In North Carolina, another highly consequential state for our resolution, pro-COS candidates picked up several seats in very close races. As explained by COS Vice President of Legislative Affairs Rita Peters, crossing the finish line was a result of our thousands of dedicated volunteers.
"Our COSA grassroots army made a huge difference in elections across the nation. In North Carolina alone, COS-supportive candidates picked up at least one new seat in the Senate and at least 4 new seats in the House--not to mention all the other races won by candidates and incumbents who support COS,” Peters said.
North Carolina and Ohio were close to moving the COS Resolution forward this year. With the steady stream of COS-supportive candidates in both states' legislatures, they will continue to be closely monitored as we quickly head into the 2023 legislative session.
“Our North Carolina Team made more than 8,500 phone calls, sent more than 58,000 text messages, and visited over 4,000 homes in the lead-up to this election. Our efforts helped the Senate gain a veto-proof majority. That is impact," Peters added.
Other states awaiting final results that will determine which party gains control of at least one chamber include Arizona, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, and Washington.
While some may be disappointed over how the U.S. Congress is lining up, here's a timely reminder: We can't put all our eggs in one basket every election cycle.
Elections don't change the goal of COS to take power away from the Washington establishment. State and local government impact people the most, which is why COS is so dedicated to putting power back in the hands of the people.
Convention of States is here for the long run. We know control of Washington shifts every two years, but we're here to make a lasting impact by implementing worthwhile changes at an Article V Convention of States – like term limits and a balanced budget.
We'll keep moving towards the 34-state threshold to call for a convention. It won't matter who controls Washington because the states and the people will be the ones to decide.
If you're new and want to get involved, make sure to sign the COS petition below and take action here.
Stay tuned as more state results come in!
