Every election season brings with it a familiar rhythm—yard signs, debates, endorsements, and the quiet (or not-so-quiet) question whispered among friends: “But who can win?”
And while that’s a valid question, I want to invite us to pause and consider a different one: Who should win?
Because a vote isn’t just a wager on a likely outcome. It’s a reflection of what we believe is possible. It’s a statement of our values. It’s our vision, in ink.
In District 7, we’re fortunate to have multiple candidates stepping forward to serve our community. Some are familiar names–Kate Curry-Da-Souza, former chair of the Near East Area Commission. Some are newer to this particular spotlight–Tiara Ross, an assistant city attorney and Jesse Vogel, an immigration attorney. All are asking for our trust. And in return, we should ask ourselves: Who do I believe has the vision, the experience, the values, and the courage to represent me and my neighbors?
I understand the pressure to vote strategically—to pick the candidate who seems to have momentum, who might attract support from the right donors or insiders. But our democracy is stronger when we vote not just for who can win, but for who should lead.
Let’s not underestimate the power of one voice—or one vote—spoken with clarity and conviction.
As you prepare to cast your ballot in the District 7 primary, I hope you vote not from fear of a “wasted vote,” but from a place of deep alignment. That’s the vote that builds the community we deserve. And remember this is a primary, you can change your vote during the general election–a lot can happen in a few short months.
More to come after the primary. But for now: lead with your values.
– Densil –
May 6th primary and special election key dates
April 7 — Voter registration deadline. Go to https://olvr.ohiosos.gov/ to register, check your registration, make changes to your address, etc.
April 8 — County election offices open voting centers for early, in-person absentee voting and begin mailing absentee ballots.
April 29 — Deadline to request an absentee ballot. Go to https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/voters/how-to-request-your-absentee-ballot/ to request an absentee ballot.
May 6 — Election Day, Tuesday, Polls open 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.