Power of unions and advocacy groups in ‘battleground’ US states

Las Vegas / Columbus:As the 2024 election cycle kicks into high gear, US voters are concerned with the performance and policies of each of the candida...

Las Vegas / Columbus: As the 2024 election cycle kicks into high gear, US voters are concerned with the performance and policies of each of the candidates which will decide the future of American democracy.

In particular, the work of labour unions and civic organisations is more critical than ever, as they seek to ensure the political landscape of different states reflects the needs of people.

The influence of these organisations in the “swing” states or “battleground” states – sometimes referred to as “purple” states - that have split support for Democratic and Republican candidates in recent presidential election cycles plays a pivotal role in elections.  

A group of 20 journalists from around the world including Qatar recently had the opportunity to explore how American democracy is shaped not just through voting but through ongoing civic participation and community endeavours.

The international reporting tour ‘Democracy is More Than Election Day’ organised by the Global Public Affairs Bureau of the US Department of State through its Foreign Press Centers paved the way for the journalists to know in depth about the unfolding political landscape in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Columbus, Ohio, “battlegrounds” in the 2024 US elections.