This election season marks my 16th election with United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Jewish Community Relations Council.
Over those 16 election cycles, I’ve watched elections energize the community, spark debate, shape public policy, and help determine the direction of local, state, and national government. I’ve also heard countless people say the same thing: “My vote won’t make a difference.”
History tells us otherwise.
One of the most compelling examples happened just across the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel. Those who follow elections likely remember the 2017 race between David Yancey and Shelly Simonds for a seat in the Virginia House of Delegates. After Election Day, a recount, and legal challenges, the race ended in an exact tie and was ultimately decided by a random drawing under Virginia law.
At a time when concerns about antisemitism, support for Israel, and the safety of Jewish communities are top of mind throughout the Jewish community, voting is one of the most direct ways to make your voice heard.
But making your voice heard requires more than simply showing up on Election Day. It means becoming an informed voter by learning about the candidates, understanding the issues, reviewing the ballot, and planning how and when to vote.
To help make that easier, the JCRC created a 2026 Election Toolkit – a one-stop resource for Virginia voters. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater must remain nonpartisan. The toolkit is designed to encourage informed and engaged participation in the democratic process.
Sixteen elections later, the message remains the same:
Get educated. Show up. Vote.
Because your vote matters.
Every vote matters.
Visit JewishVA.org/Election26 to make your plan to vote and access the toolkit.
Robin Mancoll, is senior director, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Jewish Community Relations Council.