Introducing LAMA’s 2024 Voter Guide
Arizona voters will have 13 statewide ballot measures to consider this fall. There are two citizen initiatives, plus eleven that were referred to the ballot from the state legislature.
LAMA takes positions only on those measures that relate to its policy priorities — which in 2024 are Hunger, Water and Civic Engagement — and ELCA social teaching. Positions were adopted by the LAMA Policy Committee on August 27, 2024.
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Vote Ballot Measures First!
Direct Democracy
Arizona is a ballot initiative state. This means that eligible voters not only elect rep-resentatives to make policy decisions, they also sometimes directly vote on public policy.
This direct democracy element of Arizona’s civic structure is unique, and voters need to know the important decision-making role they play in building and maintaining thriving communities. Data from recent elections shows that many voters don’t vote all the way to the end of the ballot. This incomplete voting creates an obstacle to realizing the equitable policies and thriving communities we desire.
Ballot Measures Matter Too
With so much happening in state and national politics, ballot measures can sometimes become an afterthought. Even so, these ballot measures have an important impact on our state policy landscape.
Making thoughtful and informed decisions about candidates for office is undoubtedly a critical component of your participation in our democracy. It is also important to research the measures at the bottom of your ballot. That’s where we can help! This voter guide is designed to help you understand the issues and learn about our Lutheran perspective on them. You are warmly invited to share this guide with any family, friends and neighbors for whom it may be helpful, too.
Vote Faithfully!
The ELCA is a Public Church
As people of God, we believe in promoting faithful and non-partisan voter participation. All members of ELCA congregations are encouraged to use the rich faith-based resources of the church to guide their voting on measures that affect all people.
We Are the People of God
Scripture reveals God’s presence in all realms of life, including political life. Our church understands government as a means through which God works to preserve creation and build a more peaceful and just social order in a sinful world. The electoral process is one way in which we live out our affirmation of baptism to “serve all people, following the example of our Lord Jesus,” and “to strive for justice and peace in all the earth.”
As people of God, we have been freed to love our neighbor, seek peace and justice, and care for God’s creation. Faith should inform not only our participation but also how we look at public issues and interpret what is happening in political life.