California's Parent-Powered Results

We saw the power of parents this Election Day.

Every Sunday evening I spend an hour on a video conference call with our parent organizers around the state. On our last call before Election Day, we reflected on conversations with neighbors and friends that had left an impression on us -- conversations that had motivated us to keep fighting for kids, even when we were up against tough odds.

"I now feel like my vote matters" -- this was the common thread about the meaningful conversations our parent organizers had with families around California. It was the feeling of parents who, once armed with the resources to navigate the ballot, felt confident to make their voices heard. These parents made all the difference.

Parents came together to vote yes on Proposition 55, which will help our kids by preventing devastating cuts to our public schools, colleges, and health care programs.

Parents stood up against big tobacco to pass Proposition 56, which will keep kids from smoking and save lives.

Ballot propositions can be confusing. Even the most informed voter can feel powerless against the onslaught of radio ads, mailers, and misleading information around every corner. However, parents aren't easily fooled. And when it comes to kids, parents are the best advocates. Thank you to every parent who took the time to learn more, vote, and talk to their kids about this election.

When it comes to shifting public policy, you can't win without a team. Thank you to the organizing efforts of the Yes on 55 and Yes on 56 campaigns. With these groups, we were able to create a cohesive voice to demand commonsense, kid-partisan solutions.

This is only the beginning. Looking to 2017, our parent-powered movement will continue to act as a voice for California kids in the hallways of power.

Thank you for all your support this election.

Every day, Common Sense Kids Action fights to make kids our nation's top priority. Sign up to be a Kids Action Advocate today!