As the sun set early on the evening of Nov. 8, 2024, people streamed into the warmly lit Corner Taphouse on Finnegan Way in Bellingham, Wash.
Smiles and hugs spread through the bar as old friends reunited and newcomers introduced themselves. The orange and blue hues of the taphouse walls and carpets were completed by accents of framed photos of shimmering dusk on the ocean, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Brought together with string lights, cozy couches, comfort food and beer, attendees at the "Drinks with Democracy Dreamers" event spent the evening discussing the future of democracy, three days after the election.
“We started this because we knew people were going to have, regardless of how the election went, some strong feelings,” said Natalie Morgan, an organizer with FairVote Washington. “Working in electoral reform, what’s great is that it’s not over when the election’s over, that’s when our work really begins.”
Whether celebrating or recuperating, the event’s goal was to focus on the positives and continue pushing toward a shared vision of democracy. FairVote Washington is particularly focused on advocating for ranked-choice voting.
In ranked-choice voting, voters can list candidates from most to least preferred. If their first-choice candidate doesn't win enough votes, their ballot is transferred to their second-choice until a candidate secures a majority.
Kit Muehlman, a volunteer with FairVote Washington, explained that ranked-choice voting reduces the need for strategic voting — the practice of voting for a less-preferred candidate to prevent a candidate they strongly dislike from winning. It aims to reduce divisive politics, allowing voters to support their true preferences without fear of wasting their votes.
“It’s something that gives people hope that the political climate can improve,” Muehlman said. “Ranked-choice voting lets us see shades of gray; it doesn’t force you to pick one team or the other.”
As the taphouse filled with more attendees who became acquainted with the food, drinks and discussions of a better democracy, folks spoke of what inspired them to attend the event.
Joel Pitts-Jordan, a county charter review commissioner-elect endorsed by FairVote Washington, attended the event to share resources and engage in meaningful discussions about reform. Everything approved through the charter review process goes before voters. He said it’s crucial to hear from the public throughout the process and understand their perspectives.
“One of the key components of the charter review process is robust public engagement,” Pitts-Jordan said.
Western Washington University Political Science Professor Catherine Wineinger, seated on one of the black leather couches surrounding a coffee table full of FairVote pamphlets and stickers, noted the current electoral system does not foster a strong electorate. She expressed optimism about how reforms like ranked-choice voting could restore trust in political representation.
“Because of this election, I’ve been very motivated to see what we can do at the state and local level,” Wineinger said.
FairVote Washington is planning more events in Whatcom County to further engage the community in democratic reforms, including “Bridging the Political Divide in Whatcom: Learning from Portland’s Charter Review Process” on Dec. 14, 2024, Lobby Day on Feb. 5, 2025, to raise electoral reform awareness among legislators and a St. Patrick’s Day parade in March 2025 to celebrate over 100 years of ranked-choice voting in Ireland.
Jessie Post, a volunteer with FairVote, departed from a group nearby and joined Wineinger in her enthusiasm.
“We’re not here to commiserate or talk about what happened, we’re here to get things done.”
Larson McDonagh (they/them) is a City News reporter for The Front this quarter. They are majoring in Environmental Journalism. They are the current President of Western’s Advanced Treble Chorale for which they’ve been involved for the past three years. Outside of school, they enjoy reading good books and cooking delicious meals. You can reach them at larsmcdonagh.thefront@gmail.com.
