The Truth Staff
November’s First Monday, hosted by the Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance at Mt Nebo Missionary Baptist Church, took place the day before Election Day and, a number of presenters addressed the issues, and candidates, on the ballot.
Toledo Public Schools Superintendent Romules Durant, EdD, spoke about the need for passage of Issue # 9, the 6.9 mill proposal (that would pass on the next day by 10 points).
Shaun Strong, Black Engagement District Director for Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur’s campaign, took a few minutes off from his chores getting people to the polls to explain the urgency of the next day’s event. (Kaptur won re-election by 5.4 points over Republican Derek Merrin in a district that had been gerrymandered three times in the past 10 years).
Anita Madison of Ohio Unity also spoke of the necessity of getting out the votes in this last minute effort.
In fact, the get-out-the-vote effort in Lucas County was very effective. This year’s general election saw 53.1 percent of registered voters making a vote compared to recent turnouts in midterm election years – 45.75 percent in 2022 and 49.7 percent in 2018.
This turnout in Lucas County was reflective of the pattern in the nation as a whole. Turnout was unexpectedly high everywhere and Democratic candidates everywhere benefited. In swing states and red states around the nation, Democrats won enough contests to gain majority control of the U.S. House and Senate, a majority of governors’ mansions and a number of state legislatures.
In addition to the election information, attendees also heard upcoming events from speakers such as: Crystal Darnell Harris, director of Engagement for Lucas County, who has organized a Small Business Networking event on Thursday, November 12, at the Glass City Enrichment Center; Clarence Smith, director of the Clarence Smith Community Chorus, spoke of the upcoming celebration of 50 years of performances during this December’s Christmas concert and Tracci Johnson, newly appointed executive director of Women of Toledo.
