Campaigns spend millions to influence voters. This works better | Katie Paris

Katie Paris argues that the most effective way to influence voter turnout is through personal connections rather than traditional campaign methods. She cites research showing that individuals contacted by their peers can see a 5-7 percentage point increase in turnout, while conventional campaigns often spend millions for only marginal gains.

Paris highlights a notable shift in political engagement, particularly among women who have historically been less active in politics. She points out that in the 2018 midterm elections, the party in power lost 43 congressional seats, significantly more than the typical loss of 26 seats, with many of these losses occurring in suburban areas.

To promote this community-focused approach, Paris founded Red, Wine, and Blue, choosing a name that avoids the connotations of a political party. She contrasts her strategy of leveraging personal networks with traditional campaigns that depend on volunteers canvassing unfamiliar neighborhoods.

She emphasizes that the relationships formed during political campaigns often extend beyond election day, as women continue to collaborate within their communities. Paris expresses concern that political insiders in Washington, D.C., frequently overlook the voices of everyday people, which can be discouraging in the current political landscape.

Despite these challenges, Paris maintains that solutions to political issues are rooted in local communities, where individuals can support one another. She encourages engagement in community-driven political efforts that promote collective well-being, urging people to connect with their communities and discuss the issues that matter most to them.