Seven Tips for Surviving Election Season
A MARSP Member's Guide
Election season can feel overwhelming, with constant ads and headlines vying for attention. But it’s also an opportunity to focus on what truly matters—such as your right to a dignified retirement. As a public school retiree or employee, your decisions at the ballot box directly influence your future. Here are some practical tips to ensure your vote reflects the issues that impact your life the most, including those that MARSP continues to fight for every day.
1. Identify issues that impact your life
Focus on topics that have a tangible impact on your day-to-day life, such as retirement, healthcare, and financial security.
Consider MARSP’s legislative priorities:
- Solvency of MPSERS Pension and Healthcare Funds
MARSP fights for the stability and solvency of the Michigan Public School Employees Retirement System (MPSERS) and supports legislative measures to maintain or increase pre-funding for MPSERS pension and healthcare. - Workforce Stability
MARSP promotes policies that secure a robust retirement system for current AND future public school retirees. When employees are confident in their financial future, they experience higher workplace satisfaction and are more likely to stay in their field. Talent retention brings continuity and expertise to Michigan’s classrooms and contributes to the long-term health of the retirement system. - Return to Work Without Penalty
The expertise and experience of recently retired public school personnel make them the optimal candidates for substitute and critical shortage positions. MARSP advocates for legislation that enables recent retirees to return to work in schools without negatively affecting their pension or healthcare benefits. - Finalizing the State Budget by June 30
Timely completion of the state budget allows schools to plan effectively for the academic year. MARSP advocates for the budget to be finalized by June 30 each year.
MARSP’s commitment: Will there be another attempt to chip away at your defined benefit pension? You bet. And MARSP will fight for your financial future all day, every day. Will there be another push to increase your healthcare premiums? Absolutely. And we’ll be there, standing up for your healthcare. Could the narrative resurface blaming retirees for underfunded education systems? Without a doubt. And we will continue to defend your benefits with unwavering commitment.
2. Research local candidates
We owe it to ourselves and future generations to support candidates who understand the importance of a robust retirement system and are committed to defending the right to a dignified retirement. Beyond the national election, research candidates in state and local races who will make decisions affecting your pension, healthcare, and community.
3. Focus on facts
Seek reputable sources that provide evidence-based information. Be skeptical of sensational headlines, unverified or misleading claims, fear-mongering, and quick fixes.
4. Limit news consumption
Participate in discussions, ask lots of questions, and follow organizations that advocate for the issues that matter to you—like MARSP!
5. Stay engaged
Participate in discussions, ask lots of questions, and follow organizations that advocate for the issues that matter to you—like MARSP!
6. Evaluate policy, not personality (and ask for examples!)
Focus on candidates’ stances on key issues. Ask candidates and incumbents for specific examples of how they have backed up their positions in the past or their concrete plans for impacting policies in the future. This ensures you vote based on actions and solutions – not just promises or rhetoric. Here are some example questions:
- Can you provide an example of legislation or policies you’ve supported that directly impacted public school retirees or MPSERS funding?
- What measures will you take to protect public school retirees’ pensions and health benefits?
- What would your priorities be if there was a surplus in one of the funds? Would you support an additional contribution to MPSERS UAAL?
7. Cast your vote wisely
Make sure your vote reflects your values and the issues that matter most!
