When Nurses Vote, Health Care Policy Changes for the Better

When Nurses Vote, Health Care Policy Changes for the Better

Make Your Voice Heard

Washington, DC — Without nurses, quality care would be out of reach for many U.S. residents. As the largest, most trusted health care profession, nurses’ influence on public health and policy cannot be overstated. With so much at stake for the future of health care, it is essential for nurses to make their voices heard, because when nurses speak, health care changes for the better.

Nurses benefit society in many ways and positively impact patients and health care systems. This experience, in addition to the public’s trust in the profession, makes nurses’ voices invaluable when improving health care and meeting patients’ needs. In this election year, we encourage nurses to vote in local, state, and federal elections to ensure quality patient care and nursing perspectives are prioritized.

The Tri-Council for Nursing, an alliance of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the American Nurses Association, the American Organization for Nursing Leadership, the National Council of State Boards of Nursing, and the National League for Nursing, representing nurses in practice, education, and regulation, urges you to exercise your right to vote in the 2024 election.

The Tri-Council calls upon all nurses to carefully weigh the positions, proposals, statements, and voting records of candidates who aspire to elected office on November 5. To ensure you have the best information available and are ready to cast your ballot, follow these three simple steps:

1. Register. Double check your registration status by going to Vote.gov. Some states allow same day or online registration, but it is important to check now to ensure you are prepared for Election Day.
2. Do your research. While 2024 is a presidential election year, there are many open seats at the state and local levels as well. It is important to research not only who will be on the ballot, but any proposals that may be up for consideration.
3. VOTE. Voting can look very different depending on the state and territory. Check out voting options in your state or territory, find your polling site, and determine the best way for you to cast your ballot in this year’s election.

To learn more about local and state voting rules, polling places, mail-in options, or absentee ballots visit Vote.gov.

Nurses continue to answer the call to protect our nation’s health and safety, from rural towns to urban centers. With nearly 5 million nurses nationwide, there is power in our voice. This year, make your voice heard in the 2024 election and beyond.

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