Kids cannot vote, but you can ensure that their voices are heard by engaging with candidates in local, state, and federal elections.

The leaders we elect determine policy that will impact our daily lives for what may be generations to come. But how often do we pause to consider–specifically–how our choices at the ballot box will impact us, and particularly young children who depend on us to make the right choices?

We must keep the needs of children front and center each and every election season.

On the 2023 ballot, Kentuckians will be voting for statewide offices including Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State, Treasurer, Auditor, and Commissioner of Agriculture – all with decision making power that can impact child and family well-being.

Check out our Electoral Advocacy Toolkit slideshow as you prepare your organization, community group, or self to speak with candidates.

NEW: Tune into Kentucky Youth Advocates’ Making Kids Count Podcast for conversations with candidates:

    • Interview with KY Gubernatorial Candidate Andy Beshear
      *An invitation for an appearance on the Making Kids Count Podcast has also been extended to Gubernatorial Candidate Daniel Cameron.
    • Interview with KY Attorney General Candidate Russell Coleman
    • Interview with KY Attorney General Candidate Pam Stevenson

Before you begin, check out data on child well-being and some recent policies for kids and families. Resources include:

After learning how kids are faring in your community, ask your candidates what they plan to do to improve the lives of kids and their families.

Throughout this election season, engage with the candidates and make your plan to vote:

  • Listen to episodes of the Making Kids Count Podcast for conversations with candidates.
  • See what your sample ballot will look like before heading to the polls on November 7, 2023.
  • Prepare for the 2023 election:
    • Register or renew your current voter registration. The last day to register for General Election is October 10, 2023.
    • Make your plan to vote! Stay tuned for updates from the Secretary of State’s office on Absentee Ballot, Mail-In, and Early voting requests.
    • Find your local polling location.
  • Utilize the Electoral Advocacy Toolkit in preparation for or as a guide when speaking with candidates.

We encourage you to learn the tools of the children’s advocacy trade and be sure to ask candidates a question or two from the list above. Let’s make kids count in this election, Kentucky!