Liz Wester, Protect Democracy

COMMUNITY RESILIENCE

Sunshine 100 Lunch & Learn: Building Community Resilience Ahead of the 2026 Elections

The Sunshine 100 Unity Network recently hosted a Lunch & Learn focused on Community Resilience in the Face of Election Interference, featuring Liz Wester, Campaign and Organizing Strategist at Protect Democracy.

Liz shared insights into the evolving challenges facing American elections and discussed how communities can work together to protect voters' rights, strengthen public confidence, and ensure everyone feels safe participating in the democratic process.

The discussion explored three primary tactics that can undermine elections: Deceive, Disrupt, and Deny. These include spreading conspiracy theories and misinformation about election processes, using threats or intimidation to discourage participation, and attempting to prevent the certification of legitimate election results.

A central theme of the presentation was the importance of preparing communities to respond thoughtfully and collectively to potential election interference. Liz emphasized that responding to incidents and rumors requires accurate information, measured communication, and a coordinated community response. Amplifying unverified reports or speculation can unintentionally create fear and discourage people from voting.

Liz encouraged community leaders to build relationships across faith communities, businesses, labor organizations, elected officials, civic groups, and local election offices. These partnerships can help ensure accurate information reaches residents, election officials feel supported, and trusted community voices are prepared to respond when questions or concerns arise.

Key recommendations included:

• Build strong community partnerships: Engage trusted leaders and organizations across diverse communities to create a coordinated response network.
• Support local election officials: Maintain communication and ensure officials have the support and resources needed to protect voters.
• Verify before sharing: Establish clear protocols for confirming information with election officials and trusted sources before circulating reports or claims.
• Communicate responsibly: Address incidents with accurate, specific information without exaggerating threats or spreading unverified rumors.
• Lead with shared values: Reinforce the fundamental principle that every eligible American should be able to vote freely, safely, and confidently.
• Emphasize community action: Encourage participation through early voting, voting by mail, and other available options while reinforcing that communities are prepared to protect everyone's right to participate.

Participants also discussed concerns about misinformation surrounding mail-in voting and the importance of ensuring voters understand their available options without being discouraged by unnecessary fear or speculation.

The overarching message was clear: Community resilience is built before a crisis occurs. By strengthening relationships, supporting election officials, sharing verified information, and working across political and community lines, we can help protect the democratic process and reinforce confidence in our elections.

Sunshine 100 continues to bring Floridians together across political and ideological differences to strengthen civic engagement, foster meaningful dialogue, and build more resilient communities.

Link to Full Webinar