POPVOX / Local

POPVOX is testing a new kind of network that allows policymakers to update and seek input from constituents on an ongoing basis. The system allows public officials to post updates but limits interactions to their constituents (though anyone can "follow" and view). The first stage of this network, "LegiDash," is now in beta for Congressional staff. The next phase, "POPVOX Local," will be tested in several pilot jurisdictions this year. The goal for this network is to tangibly improve tone, trust, and truth in online civic engagement – and to broaden and diversify public participation at every level of government. 

We have a public comment period in our regular meetings, but the only people who show up are those who are against whatever is under consideration. We need a way for regular residents (who are busy with jobs and school and families) to weigh in on proposals without having to show up in person.” – City Council Representative

“We don’t have a system for notifying the public about meetings or issues, we just send out the announcements to our media list and post it on the website” – County Commission Secretary


“It is so hard to find out what is going on at the local level – I don’t even know where to start; not to mention trying to figure out what’s happening between the school board and the county commission and the city. Who has time to keep up with it all?” – Resident


“I just moved here so I don’t even know how it all works or who my representatives are. The election is coming up and I have no idea who cares about what an if they are doing a good job.” – Resident 

POPVOX / Local will serve individuals, policymakers, advocates and community groups, media, and researchers.

The system allows public officials to post updates but limits interactions to their constituents (though anyone can "follow" and view). Each jurisdiction (school board, village, city, county, etc.) can access public notice and agenda tools. Local residents, organizations, and citizen journalists can use the network to disseminate information, organize, and join together for offline action. The network will prioritize individual control of data, without algorithmic manipulation, and require real names at sign up with verification (though screen names may be used publicly) to ensure trust and safety.

The network will prioritize individual control of data, without algorithmic manipulation, and require real names at sign up with verification (though screen names may be used publicly) to ensure trust and safety.

POPVOX is a *civic startup* and our board prioritizes the civic mission equally with our duty to build a sustainable, scalable business and return value to investors. 

We are neutral and nonpartisan; we take our position of public trust very seriously.

• We don’t accept ads (so there is no reason to drive clicks and attention)

• We don’t sell or share user data

• We are obsessively nonpartisan and neutral

• We prioritize civic mission over profit and work with funders who support this approach

Since 2010, POPVOX has provided a nonpartisan platform for legislative information, advocacy, and governing tools at the state and federal level. 

POPVOX currently offers tools for civic engagement and governing – including public official information, bills as they are introduced, and tools to help constituents write to their lawmakers. We also offer API-based infrastructure tools, including delivery and data services for partners that include advocacy vendors and government partners. We recently introduced a new suite of tools for federal legislative staffers.