At a SC Progressive Network conference in 2019, we met to prepare a 2020 triple-tracked plan on the Census, redistricting, and the MVP. Those plans were derailed by the health crisis. Given the new reality, the 2020 MVP plan has been adjusted to protect volunteers and the public. In the new model, the state’s few young black voters will, with the aid of their cell phones, be the catalysts to inspire their peers, families, and neighbors to power a principled movement for social justice.

We are testing our 2020 MVP plan in Saluda and Fairfield counties, where  we have roots and connections. Our initial target is small. They are the Black youth between ages 18 and 24 who voted in 2018. In Saluda County, there are 286. In Fairfield, there are 538.

Of Fairfield’s 1,161 Black youth,  34% voted in 2018, the state’s second-highest percentage of eligible turnout.

Statewide, only 23,000 out of 207,000 (11%) of black South Carolinians under age 26 voted in the last general election.

These few young, Black voters are our lead organizers.  Their MVP training is preparing them to understand why their peers don’t vote. County-based nonpartisan organizations, churches, and businesses are lifting up the young MVP volunteers as heroes.

More than half of all SC voters will only have one name on their general election ballot for state Senate or House. Because of racial and partisan gerrymandering, few of the contested races will be considered competitive — with the winner getting less than 60% of votes.

The only two political districts on the ballot this Nov. 3 that cannot be rigged by gerrymandering are the statewide races for US President and US Senator. If organized and mobilized, Black voters can make history by turning out in record numbers to vote in those races on Nov. 3.

For details, email daniel@scpronet.com or call 803-661-8000.