THE MIDTERMS: OUR VOTE. OUR POWER. — Let’s Make It Count!

The 2026 midterm elections are coming, and this may be one of the most important conversations we have before Election Day.

In this episode of Let’s Talk with Carl E. Long, I’m speaking directly to African Americans—and ultimately to every voter who is frustrated, exhausted, confused, disappointed, or wondering whether their vote still matters.

This isn't about blindly following a political party. And it isn't about somebody else telling you how to think.

It's about becoming an INFORMED VOTER.

We’re talking about why midterm elections matter, what’s actually at stake, and why sitting out an election because you're disappointed with politics doesn't stop somebody else from making the decision.

We also tackle some difficult conversations:

Are political labels doing our thinking for us?
Progressive. Moderate. Conservative. Socialist. Liberal. What does the candidate actually stand for?

Should you be a single-issue voter?
One issue may be extremely important to you—but have you considered everything else that comes with the candidate?

Are politicians selling solutions—or selling fear?
I’ll give you my Five-Question Fear Test for examining political claims before allowing fear, anger, or social media to influence your vote.

What if your candidate lost the primary?
The general election still happens. Somebody will win. So how do you evaluate the choices that are actually left on the ballot?

And we have an important conversation about political parties and accountability:

No party should automatically expect it.

No candidate automatically deserves it.

Make them earn it.

Research the candidates. Compare their policies. Examine their records. Consider their character and competence. Look beyond the labels. Verify what you're being told.

Then make your own decision.

And I'm issuing the Five-Voter Challenge: find five eligible voters in your family, workplace, church, neighborhood or circle of friends. Help them check their registration, understand what's on their ballot, and make a plan to vote.

You don't have to tell them who to vote for.

Help make sure their voice is heard.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

Don't let disappointment become silence.

Don't let fear make your decision.

Don't let labels do your thinking.

Get informed. Know your choices. Make your plan. And VOTE.

Our Vote. Our Power. Our Future.

— Carl E. Long
Let’s Talk with Carl E. Long

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