The Republican National Committee (RNC) is making some significant changes to its early voting initiative. The party is ending the “Bank Your Vote” program started by former Chair Ronna McDaniel. Michael Whatley, the newly elected RNC chair, highlighted the importance of early voting, particularly in reaching voters before Election Day.
“Over 50 percent of American voters will vote before Election Day. We need to ensure we communicate with them,” Whatley told Fox News. His new initiative is named “Grow The Vote.”
RNC Removes ‘Bank Your Vote’ Website, Plans Overhaul Of Early Voting Initiative https://t.co/2iRfM5V4rh
— The Federalist (@FDRLST) April 20, 2024
The shift comes as Democrats have historically outperformed Republicans in early and mail-in voting. However, recent data from Virginia shows a narrowing gap, with a notable increase in early in-person votes cast by Republicans.
Despite the strategic adjustments, the RNC remains focused on securing votes through early voting mechanisms, which include mail-in and in-person options. Whatley’s approach, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, seeks to adapt to the evolving voting landscape while addressing concerns about mail voting.
The “Grow The Vote” initiative will complement existing strategies to bank votes, aiming to reach a broader demographic, including independents and unaffiliated voters, who increasingly participate in early voting.
The new RNC approach will be tested under fire immediately, as the critical November elections are approaching rapidly. Whether Republicans learn the lessons of the last two election cycles will be critical in determining whether the GOP will have any chance to secure reforms that could return U.S. elections back to secure processes that are truly designed to ensure that only eligible voters cast ballots that are counted.
The RNC appears to be paying attention to the rapidly changing dynamics regarding elections, especially the changes made in 2020 allegedly in response to the pandemic. Many of those changes — which were designed and implemented by Democrats — are likely to now be enshrined in the American process unless and until Republicans can make significant reforms after winning majorities.
However, transitioning from the “Bank Your Vote” initiative to “Grow The Vote” also highlights the challenges of shifting party strategies under new leadership. While the intent to capture a broader voter base is clear, the implementation and acceptance within the party’s traditional base will be crucial.
