In addition to a comprehensive program of voter education, registration, and mobilization (@BatesVotes), Bates offers an array of election-related programs designed to stimulate learning and discussion and to support informed civic action. The list below will be updated periodically during the 2023 election cycle.

What’s on my ballot?

Announcing the Bates Votes Guide to the 2023 Elections

Maine has 8 statewide referendum questions on the ballot, along with municipal races for Mayor, City Council, and School Committee.  Many of these races are consequential about whether our local government will invest in affordable housing, educational equity, public safety, and more! Take a look at the 2023 Bates Votes Guide to the Elections and the Bates Student Voter Guide. It’s a great nonpartisan resource to consider when you’d like to learn more about your candidates.

• Bates Votes Guide to the 2023 Elections: https://bit.ly/2023-Bates-Voter-Guide
• The Bates Student Voter Guide: https://thebatesstudent.com/24845/news/a-comprehensive-guide-to-your-local-ballot-and-how-to-cast-it-2/

2023 Election Forum Recordings:

Last week, the Harward Center sponsored two informational forums about the 2023 Elections. Please check out the videos from the event to learn more.

What’s on the Ballot? Making Sense of Maine’s Referendum Questions
Monday, October 30, 2023 – Muskie Archives
View Recording Here: https://youtu.be/blcURkJO46Q

Join us for a panel discussion with Maine’s Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, Steve Mistler, Chief Political Correspondent from Maine Public, and Kate Cough, Energy & Environment Reporter with The Maine Monitor. Moderated by Assistant House Majority Leader Kristen Cloutier, we’ll learn about the referendum questions – from banning campaign spending by foreign governments in elections, to create a nonprofit, consumer-owned utility company, to automotive “right to repair”, to requiring the state of Maine to publish all provisions of the Maine Constitution, including its obligations toward Wabanaki Tribes.

Who’s on My Ballot? Meet the Lewiston Candidates for Mayor, Council, and School Committee

Thursday, November 2 – 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Bates College Muskie Archives, 70 Campus Ave.
School Committee & City Council Candidates: https://youtu.be/LuxTsQB2Spg
Mayoral Candidates: https://youtu.be/TcFisKiozAc

Do you know that there are 16 races on the Lewiston ballot? Join us on Wednesday, November 1 at Muskie Archives for a youth-led community forum with candidates running for Lewiston Mayor, City Council, and School Committee. Learn more about where your local candidates stand on issues such as education, housing, and more.

Event is open to the public. Chai & cookies, and local foods will be available.

Sponsored by Harward Center for Community Partnerships, Community Organizing Alliance, Maine Immigrant Rights Coalition, and Maine Students Vote.