Editor’s note: The Portager publishes letters to the editor from the community. The opinions expressed are published not because they necessarily reflect those of the publication but because we feel they contribute meaningfully to the local discourse on matters of public interest.
Post-election analyses are falling like the snow we expect too soon. Thanks to Ben and his intrepid ward analyzer KSU geography professor Jen Mapes, we have a look at all Portage precincts.
After decades of registering students on campus for the two non-partisan groups the League of Women Voters and, more recently, Kent State Votes coalition, we always hear - "Oh my, why don't students vote?!"
Imagine you live on a block of 20 homes of which 15 are registered. But 18 move out EVERY YEAR! So, you have to go back and help them change their addresses and, essentially re-register. Year after year. Some voters' names take a few cycles to get taken off (purged), so your block or base is more like 30 "homes" and that affects end percentages!
We hope for really good years where we get 30 percent of the base, but then there are the May primaries that usually fall right after student voters go home!
LWV of Kent and Northern Portage and the coalition of many KSU groups called Kent State Votes are proud of the students who registered in 2026 and even more happy that our "block" builds new voters with clear messaging, who may continue to lead their communities. “Our” precincts clocked 25-30% actually voting - about half of what the county voted. Then again, did all 18 of your neighbors move? Thanks to all the volunteers who staffed dozens of tables at so many events. We invest in the future!
— Craig Berger, associate director, civic and community engagement, KSU
— Barb Hipsman Springer, LWV, campus voting services and emerita, CCI, KSU