The Johnson County Democrats created a political campaign called “No Off-Years.” In a recent email, State Senator Zach Wahls explained:

I’m reaching out to invite you to join our “No Off-Years” campaign – a movement that goes beyond the elections every two years and focuses on doing the important organizing work that will turn Iowa blue again.

Our democracy thrives when we, the people, are actively involved in shaping its path. It’s not just about rallying before elections – it’s about keeping our momentum going consistently. That’s the idea behind “No Off-Years.”

Traditionally, we’ve concentrated on election periods, but I believe Democrats and anyone who values progress must stay engaged throughout the year. We need to foster lasting change, build connections, and ensure our voices are heard, no matter the season.

Email from State Senator Zach Wahls, Aug. 16, 2023.

A local organizer from Solon, got down to brass tacks while promoting training for a September canvass:

This is the path forward to better governance in the state of Iowa. We need to knock on doors and talk to our neighbors about why we think it is important support democratic candidates and really turn out and vote in huge numbers.

Email from Seth Zimmerman, Aug. 14, 2023.

What I’m hearing is Democrats developed special messaging focused on identifying where voters are politically, and encouraging them to join the mainstream Democrats in turning out for the 2024 general election.

Whatever No Off-Years becomes, I support the effort unequivocally. So should readers.

My friends and I have been talking about how to support the effort. Our small coterie of the 70-plus crowd has been debating whether to walk turfs to knock on doors at all. If they do so, some need a walker and there are various kinds from which to choose. Our theory is if one is door-knocking with a walker, 1). a person can sit and rest when needed, and 2). we might get a few sympathy votes. Making phone calls to friends and neighbors makes more sense for us than knocking doors, although that has its issues. Our conclusion in numerous telephone conversations is the next generation needs to step up and manage most of the in-person part of this campaign.

It is important to note that the main purpose of pre-election canvassing is to target and identify potential voters for our candidates, then get them out to vote. I recall the first Obama campaign during the general election. Our neighborhood organizer had a well-annotated list of everyone in the neighborhood and crossed them off once they committed to voting for Obama or said they wouldn’t. As election day approached, we were able to assess each uncommitted person on the list and make a last-ditch effort to persuade them before the polls closed. We didn’t perceive this as rallying before the election, but rather dotting our i’s and crossing t’s to bring every possible voter to the polls.

Iowa Democrats have bottomed out in our election of candidates in federal, state and local races. There is a need to change that going forward if we want to be a viable party that attracts new people. The No Off-Years campaign is worth trying. After all doing nothing is a worse option.