100 Days to the 2026 Midterms: Celebrity Co-Chairs Uniting Communities for Voter Engagement
100 Days Until the 2026 Midterms
With just 100 days remaining until the critical 2026 midterm elections, the initiative When We All Vote is ramping up its efforts to engage communities and empower voters. Recently, it was announced that Marsai Martin, a talented actress and advocate, and Victoria Monét, a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, will serve as the organization's new celebrity Co-Chairs. Their roles come at a poignant time in America's democracy as issues surrounding voter suppression and civil rights remain at the forefront of national conversations.
When We All Vote, an initiative co-founded by former First Lady Michelle Obama, is focused on mobilizing young voters, particularly those from Black and Latino communities. As part of its mission, the organization aims to ensure that voters are registered and equipped to make their voices heard at the ballot box. The inspiring addition of Martin and Monét to the Co-Chairs lineup—alongside prominent figures like Selena Gomez and Stephen Curry—signals a renewed commitment to reaching the vital Gen Z demographic, which includes nearly 50 million eligible voters in this election cycle.
The Power of Community Events
To engage voters effectively, When We All Vote is expanding its Party at the Polls program, which centers around hosting community parties during early voting and on Election Day. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to counteract challenges like redistricting, voter intimidation, and accessibility concerns. For the 2026 elections, the organization anticipates over 5,000 Party at the Polls events nationwide, involving partnerships with various local organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union and State Voices.
Voter participation is crucial this year, especially as many states grapple with issues such as voter ID confusion and threats of intimidation at the polls. The goal is to foster a sense of community and solidarity among voters, encouraging them to show up together and demonstrate that collective action can overpower attempts to suppress their voices. Kalisha Dessources Figures, a Senior Advisor for When We All Vote, expressed the excitement surrounding the new Co-Chairs and highlighted the urgency of their vision: "The work is happening right now. Even when we feel overwhelmed, we come together to create change. Our largest-ever Party at the Polls program will be a vital part of bolstering turnout as we approach Election Day."
Voices of the Future
Both Marsai Martin and Victoria Monét bring unique perspectives and advocacy to their new roles. Martin, who first registered to vote with When We All Vote in 2022, is passionate about voting rights and women's health. Meanwhile, Monét uses her platform to amplify issues surrounding voting rights and reproductive health. At a moment when polling data indicates only 43% of Gen Z identifies with a political party, the message from these Co-Chairs is clear: young people have the power to shape the future through active participation in democracy.
Bridging Generational Gaps
For decades, older generations dominated voter engagement conversations, but today's landscape is shifting. Understanding the values, passions, and methods of communication preferred by younger voters is crucial for any successful outreach program. As Co-Chairs, Martin and Monét are poised to leverage their influence, disseminating vital information and energizing their peers about the upcoming elections and related issues.
The Party at the Polls initiative has proven effective in previous years, increasing voter turnout by approximately 2–4 percentage points among attendees. This tactic not only makes voting a celebratory community experience but also strengthens the social fabric by promoting care and support among voters. The events will be designed to be entertaining and engaging, transforming polling places into vibrant community hubs.
How to Get Involved
Voters eager to participate in this movement can become part of the action by checking their registration status and signing up to host a Party at the Polls event through When We All Vote's official website. This initiative represents a nonpartisan attempt to eliminate barriers to participation and empower citizens to advocate for change.
In closing, as we move closer to the 2026 midterm elections, the combined efforts of When We All Vote, represented by influential figures like Marsai Martin and Victoria Monét, stand as a beacon of hope for millions of voters. Their leadership during this crucial time serves as a reminder that democracy thrives when every voice is heard—making the upcoming election not just a political event but a celebration of community and diversity.