In the months ahead, it would be wise for candidates to remember the 42 million-member electric cooperative community, a diverse and vast group of Americans that reach into almost every district and every state in this country.

Electric co-ops are not-for-profit energy providers that are owned by the members they serve.  They provide coverage for 75 percent of our nation's landmass. They are a foundation in their communities and their consumers are making their voices heard this election on issues that matter most to them, such as affordable electricity, broadband internet access and job security for veterans.

To ensure that all electric co-op members are part of the debate this election season, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) has launched the Co-ops Vote initiative. This non-partisan program has three goals: to increase rural voter registration and turnout, educate co-op consumers on key issues and elevate the influence of rural Americans in the outcome of this election.

By participating in the Co-ops Vote program and taking the pledge to make electric co-op issues a priority this November, consumers are sending a resounding message that candidates will need to put our concerns front and center in order to earn our vote. With millions of electric co-op members speaking out with one voice, we are already having a major impact in making our top issues part of the national conversation.

I encourage everyone, regardless of their political beliefs, to join America's electric co-ops in this national effort. Let's stand up for the priorities of the rural electric co-op community in the lead-up to November 8.  Join us, and learn more at www.vote.coop.