The takeover is the point — here’s how we hold the line

As the nation braces for yet another attempt by the current president to undermine our rights and elections, it’s important to remember where we have been as a people. From the Wilmington Race Massacre of 1898 to the takeover of the North Carolina Board of Elections after the 2024 general election, we’re reminded of the strength of our communities in the face of extreme abuse of power.

The goal has always been the same: absolute power and control over our economy, our democracy, and our communities. 

Like his past orders and comments on our elections and voting rights, President Trump is in active rebellion against the Constitution and the basic commitment to free and fair elections. That’s why he refused to sign the landmark housing affordability legislation if the SAVE ACT wasn’t prioritized. 

Even before he lost the 2020 election, Trump spent months sowing seeds of doubt on our election system and commonsense measures like vote-by-mail. He and his allies have spent the past six years rehashing old stuff and trying to make it harder for us to have a say in the process. Trump is also signaling to his allies across state, local, and federal governments the changes he wants made ahead of the 2026 midterm election. 

It’s why he’s rehashing debunked conspiracy theories that have already been investigated. Claims of foreign interference and other allegations around the 2020 election were thoroughly reviewed by over 60 judges and members of Trump’s first administration. But facts don’t matter to these people, but they are important all the same. 

And while the president’s latest move is a page from an old playbook, we must remain vigilant. Here are five ways to hold the line in the face of the attempted election takeover scheme: 

1. Don’t ignore what’s happening. 

There’s a lot moving in the news, and it can be overwhelming at times. But this is a moment that demands more from all of us. We have to find a way to stay at least aware of what is happening so we can be a part of the response and solution. 

2. Connect with your community and groups like Advance Carolina. 

The weight of everything can feel overwhelming at times. But it’s important to stay connected and engaged.  And we know there’s strength in numbers. Now is the time to lock in and stay connected. 

3. Talk to your friends and family. Share good verifiable information.

We are our best resource. With so much disinformation and demoralizing content, we must share what we learn with the people we care about. When we stand together, armed with the information and resources necessary to win, we can defy the odds. Seriously, the few minutes it takes to look something up and share can make a world of difference. 

4. Make your voice heard. 

Whether on social media, in your community newsletter or local paper, or at a local meeting,it’ss important to speak up. We cannot let this administration continue to push an agenda and false information without pushback. 

5. Commit to sustaining engagement. 

We know that protecting and defending our rights and freedoms is an ongoing process. One of the many ways we can stop the backslide is by committing to sustained community and civic engagement. 

The stakes for our engagement in this cycle and beyond increase with each attack. Showing up and being present is part of the battle. That may look different for different people, but we are truly all we’ve got. 

We want to hear from you. How are you showing up in this season?