The Best Way to Know How to Vote Is to Talk to All the Candidates
When it comes to making an informed decision at the ballot box, nothing compares to meeting the candidates face-to-face. The Family Policy Institute of Washington (FPIW) encourages every voter, church, and community group to host or attend a Candidate Meet & Greet. Here’s why this approach is so effective—and how you can make the most of it.
Why Meet Every Candidate?
The best way to know how to vote is to talk to all the candidates. Meeting candidates in person allows you to:
- Be Salt and Light in the Public Square: Engaging with candidates is a practical way for Christians to fulfill Jesus’ call to be “salt and light” in the world. By being present, asking thoughtful questions, and participating in the civic process, you bring Christian influence into your community, helping to preserve what is good, illuminate truth, and promote the common good. This active involvement is how we make a tangible difference—seasoning our communities with grace and shining a light on the path of righteousness
- Build Bridges: Personal interaction breaks down barriers, fosters understanding, and helps you see each candidate as a real person, not just a name on a sign or a soundbite in the news.
- Hear Directly from Candidates: Learn about their vision, values, and priorities in their own words, without media filters or campaign spin.
- Evaluate Character and Leadership: Observe how candidates communicate, handle questions, and engage with the community—qualities that are hard to assess from campaign literature alone.
- Hold Candidates Accountable: When you ask questions directly, you put candidates on the record and can follow up on their commitments.
How to Host a Candidate Meet & Greet
FPIW’s step-by-step guide makes it easy:
- Find Out Who’s Running: Use the official VoteWA Candidate List to see all candidates in your area.
- Invite All Candidates: Email, call, and text every candidate—Democrat, Republican, Independent, and Non-Partisan—to ensure fairness and a diversity of perspectives.
- Set Up for Success: Provide each candidate with a table and space for conversation, and keep the event friendly and non-debate focused. Light refreshments help create a welcoming atmosphere.
“All candidates—Democrats, Republicans, Independents, and Non-Partisans—are welcome. This event is designed to foster community engagement and connection, not debate. It’s a chance for you to introduce yourself, answer questions, and build relationships.”
Empower Your Church and Community
- Register Voters: Set up a table for voter registration or updates, ensuring everyone’s voice can be heard in the next election.
- Use Evaluation Tools: FPIW provides resources to help you compare candidates and make a principled, informed choice—even when “none of the candidates can walk on water”.
- Advance Biblical Values: Equip your family, church, and neighbors to defend and advance biblical values in the public square
Join the Movement
FPIW invites you to stand with us in advancing and defending biblical values in Washington. Your support—by attending events, engaging with candidates, and sharing what you learn—amplifies your voice and strengthens our communities.
The best way to know how to vote is to talk to all the candidates. Prepare your questions, meet them face-to-face, and get to know the people who want to serve your community. Together, let’s build bridges, foster accountability, and make informed choices for our future.
To get the most out of your meet and greet, come prepared with thoughtful questions. This ensures you:
- Maximize Your Time: Focus the conversation on what matters most to you and your community.
- Encourage Transparency: Candidates are more likely to give honest, detailed answers in a personal setting.
- Equip Yourself and Others: Share what you learn with family, friends, and neighbors—helping everyone make a more informed choice.
Are you going to host a candidate meet and greet?
Let FPIW Know. We would love to celebrate with you and answer any questions you may have.