Yes, every election over the last decade has been the most important election. Yes, every candidate, campaign volunteer, election worker, and voter is exhausted from one contentious, critical election after another.
But yes, the 2026 election year could very well be the most important we’ve ever had. And as Democrats working to win elections in Williamson County, we have to dig deep and make waves in at least four big trips to the ballot box over the next 12 months.
“It seems like we are constantly telling Williamson County Democrats how important the next election is,” said County Chair Kim Gilby. “But it’s true. Each election we come up short makes the next one that much more important. And to turn the tide against the harmful, hateful policies of the Republican leadership in Texas and Washington, we have to show them the voters are paying attention and have had enough.”
We need candidates, dedicated people seeking to serve their neighbors at every level of government, from local school boards and city councils to county, state, and federal offices. Those candidates need volunteers and donations to help carry them to victory. That’s all of us.
Williamson County is home to more than 450,000 registered voters. In 2024, our county topped 300,000 ballots cast in a single election for the first time ever. In that election, Democrat Kamala Harris nearly defeated Republican Donald Trump, and Democrats up and down the ballot ran neck and neck with their opponents. Imagine what we can do if we bring similar numbers to the polls in 2026 after nearly two years of the current Trump administration’s agenda of hate, regression, and aggression.
Races across the country last month laid the groundwork and sent the message.
“People are tired of seeing other people hurt and policies that damage our country,” Gilby said. “The voters spoke loud and clear in November all over the country as they chose Democratic candidates in overwhelming numbers.”
Now is the time to begin preparing, first by resting up for a nearly constant campaign season that begins with a special election in February for Leander mayor. After that comes the March primary, then local elections in May with large numbers of school board and council seats on the ballot across the county. Then it’s a sprint to November when we take back Congress, send Governor Greg Abbott packing, and begin to turn the Texas Legislature blue again. Our future depends on it.
But what can you do? The list of ways you can help carry Democrats to victory is endless. Step up financially, from regular donations to fund our work through next year’s coordinated campaign, to contributions to your favorite candidates. Volunteer to block walk, write postcards, make phone calls, deliver signs, put a sign in your yard, work on a committee, or just talk to the neighbors up and down your street about the importance of change and the promise being carried forward by our Democratic candidates.
“There are so many ways to contribute, and it will take the financial contributions, time, and talents of us all to win,” Gilby said. “Now is the time to reflect and relax, enjoy your families and take a deep breath before you take the plunge and ride that blue wave to victory.”
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