NMA Statement on the Upcoming Election
Physician Leaders Encourage Americans to Vote
For Immediate Release:
[Oct. 23, 2024]
The future state of health care lies in the hands of elected officials at the local, state and federal level, as elections significantly affect policy decisions on health care. As we approach Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 5, the National Medical Association (NMA) strongly encourages our members, patients, and communities to exercise their hard fought-and-won right to cast their ballots. Voting is not only a privilege, but a right that Black Americans – and women – have long advocated and risked their lives for. According to the Center for Inclusive Democracy (CID), Black Americans are projected to account for 14 percent of voters in this year’s election, but there are challenges and strategically manufactured barriers that are designed to lower the impact of their efforts. These include gerrymandering, limiting the number of polling sites in underserved communities and overly strict voter laws that purposely manufacture individuals with identification errors or past criminal history from voting.
The NMA advises that you confirm your voting site, craft a voting plan and consider casting your vote early to account for what is expected to be record turnout. Early voting has begun in many states, including all seven swing states. To learn more about how to cast your vote or for any other additional resources, please visit https://vot-er.org/.
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About the National Medical Association:
The NMA is the nation’s oldest and largest organization representing Black physicians and health professionals in the U.S. and promotes the collective interests of physicians and patients of African descent. We serve as the voice of Black physicians and a leading voice for parity in medicine, elimination of health disparities and promotion of optimal health. To learn more about the NMA, please visit https://www.nmanet.org/.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Sherelyn Weber
469-290-4495
