HomeLeague Nonpartisanship

What is Nonpartisanship?

Nonpartisanship Explained

The League of Women Voters is an inclusive, nonpartisan, grassroots political organization that encourages informed participation in government, promotes understanding of major public policy issues, and influences policy through education and advocacy. We are political, but we do not support or oppose any political party or candidate.

Many issues are framed today in partisan terms, isolating us from those who hold different views and splintering families and communities. Yet democracy depends on listening, discussion, and engagement across different viewpoints, so that we can work together for unity and the common good.

Founded more than 100 years ago, the League was created as a nonpartisan voice for free, fair, and open elections. Our founders believed that voters deserve issue-based information - even when it counters their views about a candidates or party. The early League leaders were often criticized for educating the public and advocating for issues that challenged the status quo, a dynamic that remains today.

Issues are Not Partisan

The League's advocacy is grounded in comprehensive, ongoing study and member input. Agreeing with a candidate on an issue does not mean endorsing that candidate, and the League never provides funding to political campaigns. While issues may evolve, our primary allegiance is always to voters.

2026 Convention - Religious Freedom Concurrence Debate

Democracy is an American Issue

For more than a century, our mission has been to empower voters and defend democracy. In today's polarized climate, this work is sometimes mischaracterized as partisan. But registering voters, protecting the ballot, expanding participation, and addressing systemic inequities are fundamental to a healthy democracy, a sustainable environment, public health, and broad prosperity.

Ensuring equal access to the ballot box, fair representation, and policies that reflect the diversity of our country is not partisan. It is essential to American democracy.

Our Nonpartisan Activities

Voter Registration

Voter education, including nonpartisan Candidate Forums

Vote411, our nonpartisan guide to voting and candidates

Advocacy in line with our official Positions, adopted by our grassroots membership every two years and outlined in Where We Stand.

All Are Welcome

People of all political perspectives - Republican, Democrat, Independent, Green, Libertarian, conservative, liberal, moderate, progressive, or otherwise - are welcome in the League if you share our commitment to an inclusive democracy.

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