As a person who spent 20 years working in politics, there are a few things I picked up along the way: First, candidates for office want to get elected and spend a lot of time on the campaign trail meeting people who they hope will vote for them.
Second, when they hear your stories and concerns, they will remember many of them.
Third, once elected, lawmakers make policy based on anecdotes they hear.
Fourth, they can only hear you when you speak up!
In May, Access Press published questions that Minnesotans with disabilities can ask candidates running for office in 2026. Now, we want to encourage you to use them.
The candidates are asking for your vote. Ask them where they stand.
Elections matter! Your voice matters!
Candidates will be knocking on doors, attending community events, sending mailers and asking for your vote. This is your opportunity to ask where they stand on issues that affect you, your family and your community.
Ask candidates:
- How will you ensure people with disabilities have a meaningful voice in policymaking?
- How will you protect, strengthen and preserve access to Medicaid and home- and community-based services?
- What will you do to address the direct care workforce shortage?
- How will you expand access to affordable, accessible housing?
- What will you do to improve accessible transportation?
- How will you increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities without putting essential benefits at risk?
- What will you do to improve special education and transition services?
- How will you support family caregivers?
- How will you protect and improve voting access for people with disabilities?
Do not be afraid to ask for specifics. Ask candidates what they would actually do, what they would support and what they would prioritize if elected.
You do not have to wait for a candidate forum. Ask when a candidate comes to your door. Ask at a town hall. Send the question by email or social media. And if you belong to an organization or advocacy group, ask candidates to address these issues with your members.
The candidates are asking for your vote. Ask them where they stand.
Elections matter! Your voice matters!
