Boosting Election Turnout for SNAP Recipients

Propel, a social enterprise providing a free app for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) beneficiaries, and Vote.org, a nonpartisan voter registration platform, are teaming up again to increase voter registration among SNAP recipients. This initiative aims to address the significant gap in voter turnout between low-income and wealthier households.

• In 2022, voter turnout among households with incomes above $100,000 reached 67%, compared to only 33% for those earning less than $20,000.
• Similarly, voter registration rates were significantly higher among higher-income households, with 82% registered compared to 57% for lower-income individuals.

Propel and Vote.org's Partnership for Election Engagement

This partnership builds on the successful collaboration during the 2020 Presidential election, where they registered over 80,000 voters.

• Propel's app serves approximately 5 million households, representing about a quarter of SNAP recipients.
• The app provides a range of services, including SNAP balance tracking, discount coupons, job application opportunities, and access to a checking account and debit card.
• Propel aims to empower its users, who are often underrepresented in the political process, to have a voice in the election.

Leveraging Existing User Base for Election Engagement

The app's user base, which regularly accesses the app to track their SNAP balance, provides a valuable platform to reach SNAP recipients.

• Users access the app as frequently as 10 times a month, facilitating effective communication about voter registration.
• By meeting voters where they are, the initiative aims to lower barriers to voting.
• Since May, around 15,000 SNAP recipients have registered to vote, and 52,000 have verified their registration status through the app.

Addressing Challenges with Voter Registration Laws

Vote.org's platform offers comprehensive information and resources for voter registration in all 50 states. While digital registration is available in some states, recent changes to voter registration laws in certain areas have introduced new challenges.

• States like Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, and Texas have enacted "wet signature" laws requiring physical signatures on voter registration forms and absentee ballot requests.
• This change presents a hurdle for SNAP recipients, as only one in five has access to a printer.
• Vote.org is seeking funding to develop a feature that allows users in these states to request paper forms, which the organization will print and mail directly to their homes.

Simplifying the Election Process for SNAP Recipients

The initiative emphasizes a non-intrusive approach to voter registration, ensuring users are informed about the option without overwhelming them.

• The voter registration feature is accessible through the app's notification center, where users receive updates and other information.
• The app guides users through the registration process, providing resources and support to streamline the process.
• By integrating voter registration into the app, Propel and Vote.org are making it easier for SNAP recipients to participate in the election.

Impact of the Voter Registration Initiative

The initiative has already registered over 570,000 voters for the upcoming election, highlighting its potential to increase voter turnout and empower underrepresented communities.

• By simplifying voter registration and providing ongoing support, Propel and Vote.org are making a tangible difference in the political landscape.
• The initiative demonstrates the power of partnerships in addressing voter turnout disparities and promoting civic engagement.