It’s a common talking point akin to a rallying cry amongst most nonprofit leaders that local elections matter. We argue that the policies that shape the programs that affect our communities the most, from food assistance to housing funds, all start with who shows up at the ballot box each and every time it’s out.
Election 2025 wasn’t a presidential year or even a midterm. But early numbers, with more to come in the months ahead, point to a clear picture of local power and civic participation that isn’t coincidence or luck. These results show how closely community voice is tied to the work we do every day and how much that participation shapes what’s possible for the people we serve.
Here are five takeaways from Election Day 2025 that help tell that story:
1. Local really meant something this year in New Jersey
Turnout across New Jersey hit roughly 50%, the highest in more than two decades for a gubernatorial cycle. Every county saw an increase compared with 2021. Hunterdon topped 62%, and even historically lower-turnout South Jersey counties like Camden reached nearly 48% (WHYY).
The takeaway: For nonprofits, it’s a good sign that people pay attention when elections feel relevant to their lives. Treat so-called “off years” as full opportunities to engage, especially when local budgets and benefits are on the line. The turnout in these counties will translate into direct momentum going forward. And don’t ignore these communities in years where noise is heightened.
2. Philadelphia showed what’s possible in an off-year
Philadelphia’s turnout jumped to 33.6%, which is up more than ten points from 2021, marking the city’s highest off-year participation in at least a decade (WHYY). That growth didn’t come from one neighborhood or one demographic group; it reflected a broader awareness that local offices matter.
The takeaway: Service nonprofits in cities like Philadelphia can help keep that awareness alive year-round by sharing simple election information: dates, registration links, and how local positions affect everyday life.
3. The suburbs didn’t sit this one out
Counties around Philadelphia, including Montgomery (~50%), Bucks (49.6%), Chester (47.7%), and Delaware (45.6%), all recorded their best off-year turnout since 2011 (WHYY). Local court and school board races helped drive attention.
The takeaway: For nonprofits serving multiple counties, this shows how civic engagement differs even across small distances. Customize your outreach to local issues and offices, not just the statewide story.
4. In New York City, turnout broke records and barriers
More than two million New Yorkers cast ballots in the city’s 2025 mayoral race, the first time turnout has hit that mark since 1969 (NBC NY). Analysts noted strong participation in predominantly Black, Hispanic, and lower-income districts.
The takeaway: When local campaigns speak directly to affordability and quality of life, the people most affected by those issues respond. Nonprofits working on food, housing, or transit can use moments like this to remind clients that civic participation isn’t separate from daily life, it’s part of how those needs are met.
5. Ballot measures can change the rules of engagement
Voters across the country weighed in on how elections themselves work. California approved a redistricting measure (Prop 50) by 64%–36%, Maine rejected a strict photo ID law by 64%–36%, and Texas approved a constitutional ban on noncitizen voting by 72%–28% (Ballotpedia).
The takeaway: Even when the rules don’t change, the conversation around them can create confusion. Nonprofits can play a key role in providing trusted, nonpartisan information, helping clients understand what’s true and what’s rumor.
Looking Ahead
This year’s results show that local elections still drive meaningful participation when people see the stakes. For nonprofits, that means engagement doesn’t start in the fall before a presidential race, it’s built through everyday trust, service, and connection every day.
When we link our missions to civic voice, we help communities not only meet their immediate needs but also shape the systems that decide how resources flow next year.
Resources + Further Reading
Looking for resources on how to talk to your community about civic engagement year-round? Here’s a selection of further readings and resources that we’ve vetted and seen help partners in all corners of the country:
