It’s not all about the Feds: State and local policymakers have a responsibility to deliver for families

(American Forum) – Many leaders elected this November won by saying that families will be better off in the years ahead than the years behind. Voters voiced their rejection of more of the same. In 2024 exit polling, 80% of voters agreed that if we want policies that work better for families, we need different kinds of leaders than we have now making these decisions. Families expect to see real progress: voters want a government working with and for them – not one stirring more polarization. Our collective call is to find common ground and deliver solutions that respond to the concrete needs of families.States are where budget decisions and policy implementation have impact – and accountability is measured. With 2024’s 11 newly elected governors and 36 gubernatorial elections in 2026, state governments have a timely opportunity to lead.Related Stories Ascend at the Aspen Institute has conducted 12 years of bipartisan election exit polling to test and track voter support on the most critical issues and solutions for families with low-income (defined as up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level). Findings show continued strong cross-party support for two-generation approaches to family economic security and well-being – those that focus...