Sara Gifford, the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of ActiVote, joins Democracy Nerd to discuss how the app offers a new way to engage people with the democratic process. ActiVote's mission is to make voting not just a civic duty but also an enjoyable and accessible experience, ultimately resulting in more engaged and informed voters.
ActiVote was born out of the persistent challenge of low voter turnout and the disconnect many citizens feel from the political process. As a result, ActiVote relies on gamification to make voting fun and increase participation. ActiVote allows users to earn points, badges, and rewards for their civic engagement. This approach not only incentivizes people to vote but also encourages them to stay informed about political issues.
The conversation also touches on the concerns surrounding the role of technology in elections and democracy. Gifford acknowledges these concerns but emphasizes that ActiVote is designed to be transparent, secure, and non-partisan. The platform is committed to safeguarding user data and ensuring the integrity of the voting process.
While there are valid concerns about the role of technology in elections and democracy, ActiVote serves as a promising example of how technology can be harnessed to have a positive impact and strengthen the foundations of democracy.