Power in Every Vote

The Democratic Women’s Club of Marco (DWCMarco) gathered virtually on June 10 for their monthly general meeting, welcoming 49 members for an evening focused on electoral reform, civic engagement, and a strong sense of community momentum.

Featured Topic: The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact

The meeting’s main presentation came from Suzanne Low of the League of Women Voters, who delivered a timely and informative talk on the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact (NPVIC). The compact offers a constitutional, bipartisan approach that does not eliminate the Electoral College but works through state-level law changes. It will ensure that the U.S. Presidency is awarded to the candidate who receives the most popular votes across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Currently, “Winner Take All” laws in 48 states disproportionately award electoral votes. Low explained that the NPVIC allows states to allocate their electoral votes to the national popular vote winner without requiring a constitutional amendment. So far, 18 jurisdictions totaling 209 electoral votes have enacted NPVIC legislation. The compact will take effect once states representing a majority of the Electoral College (270 votes) have signed on. Florida has not signed on yet, however NPVIC bills continue to be introduced.

Low addressed and debunked common misconceptions, emphasized the broad public support, including among Republicans and young voters, and encouraged attendees to visit floridiansfornpv.com to learn more. In addition, they can subscribe to the Floridians for NPV newsletter, sign up for legislative updates, and contact state lawmakers in support of the initiative.

The message was clear: reforms like the NPVIC help ensure every vote counts equally, no matter the state. NPVIC stands as a beacon of hope for a more democratic electoral system, one that aligns with the core principles of equality and voter empowerment.

Community Contributions and Civic Action

The meeting also highlighted recent contributions and actions by DWCMarco members across the island and the region:

• Donations: April and May meeting collections supported The Shelter for Abused Women & Children, with high-need items like toiletries and diapers. In May alone, members also donated 160 pounds of food to Our Daily Bread Food Pantry.
• Pride and Solidarity: DWCMarco was present at Naples Pride, sharing resources at a joint table with the Democratic Environmental Caucus. Despite challenges to the event’s format, the celebration went forward as a testament to resilience and inclusion.
• Beach Cleanup: Members braved mosquitoes to assist the Marco Island Beach Advisory Committee with another successful clean-up event on June 14.
• No Kings Rally: A dozen members attended the June 14 protest at the Collier County Courthouse, joining about 2,000 attendees in a peaceful demonstration. DWCMarco also ran a recycling station and supported water distribution efforts alongside Free Indivisible.
• Summer “Sip” Social: On June 17, DWCMarco co-hosted its first joint social with the Collier County Democratic Club at Bistro 821 in Naples. With more than 60 attendees, the event fostered new friendships and deeper connections among local Democrats.

Looking Ahead: Summer Engagement Opportunities

• Book Club Launch: DWCMarco’s new book club already has over 20 participants. The first summer reading selection will be announced in July.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Members are encouraged to join DWCMarco committees or consider board service. Open roles include secretarial positions, outreach, social planning, and legislative engagement.
• Upcoming Protests and Rally’s: Watch your email for information on upcoming events in Naples and Nationwide.

Mark Your Calendar

• August 12 – DWCMarco General Meeting (via Zoom), 5:00 PM.
• September 9 – DWCMarco General Meeting (via Zoom), 5:00 PM.
• October 14 – In-person meeting resumes at Mackle Park Community Room, 5:00 PM.

As DWCMarco heads into the quieter summer months, the club’s impact continues to grow through education, activism, and fellowship. Whether attending a rally, joining a committee, or simply staying informed, members are showing that civic action doesn’t take a season off.

Democracy is not a spectator sport. Do something.