With record voter participation in the SRP Board election, Poder Latinx Highlights Impact of Community Education on Energy Affordability

Phoenix, AZ — With polls now closed in the Salt River Project (SRP) Board election, Poder Latinx is recognizing record voter participation as a clear reflection of the impact of sustained voter education and community engagement in a race that has historically received little public attention.

According to data in press reports, more than 22,000 mail-in or dropped off votes had already been cast five days before election day, nearly tripling participation compared to the last two SRP elections. While final results are still pending, this level of participation points to a meaningful increase in voter awareness and understanding of how local energy decisions directly impact their daily lives.

Over the past several months, Poder Latinx has led targeted voter education efforts across Arizona, engaging communities through one-on-one outreach, workshops, and conversations focused on energy affordability. Through its “One Hot Summer / ¡Qué Calor!” energy affordability campaign, the organization worked to break down complex energy issues—helping families better understand their utility bills, who makes decisions about energy costs, and how civic participation can influence those outcomes.

The following statement can be attributed to Yadira Sánchez, Executive Director of Poder Latinx:

“Record participation in an election like this sends a clear message: communities are paying attention and want a voice in the decisions that impact their daily lives. For many families, rising energy costs are not abstract.  They’re a monthly reality, and this election helped connect those experiences to where decisions are made.

While we are still awaiting final results, this level of engagement is already a meaningful win for the community. It shows that when people have access to clear, relevant information and understand the stakes, they show up.

We will continue building on this work, expanding voter education, deepening community outreach, and ensuring eligible voters stay informed, engaged, and ready to participate in upcoming primaries and midterm elections. Because lasting change starts with sustained civic participation.”

Poder Latinx will continue investing in community-based education and organizing to ensure Latino and working families across Arizona have the tools, information, and opportunities to remain engaged in the decisions that affect their economic stability and quality of life.

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