❊ Civics 101

Why State Legislatures?

Congress may get the big press — but we knowstate legislatures have a tremendous impact on the residents of that state and beyond.

Here are six big reasons we focus on state legislatures.

States are responsible for a tremendous amount of day-to-day life ranging from education to reproductive health to LGBTQ+ rights to regulating firearms.

(Curious? Learn more about their role.)

1


For too long, Democrats didn’t play at the state level and it shows. A concerted Republican effort called REDMAP led to chambers being — and staying — far more conservative than the states are at large.

(Curious? Learn more about REDMAP.)

2


State legislatures are a testing ground for laws and leaders. When it’s is more conservative, more conservative laws get passed. This creates a funnel for other states to try a similar or even more conservative law.

(Curious? Learn more about “labs of democracy.”)

3

We want to build the deepest, best bench of leaders for the progressive movement. Many rising stars get their start at the state level and gain valuable experience as they move into national roles and support from States Win beyond just money.

(Curious? Learn more about States Win selects candidates.)

4


Over almost a decade of effort, the States Win ecosystem has proven incredibly effective. Our individual efforts compound within Chicagoland — and then amplified by the other teams nationwide working on a campaign.

(Curious? Read more about our big wins in 2025.)

5

State races are often decided by just a handful of votes, meaning that every conversation, phone call, and dollar can tip the scales.Your time, energy, and resources could be the deciding factor in flipping a state blue.

(Curious? Learn more about maybe a one sheeter.)

6