From severe floods to relentless heat waves to raging wildfires, climate change isn’t just changing our environment—it’s transforming our democracy.

Last week, voters in Southwest Michigan sheltered in polling stations while a tornado roared outside. In May, thunderstorms in Northern Texas forced 76 polling places to close during primary runoffs. But the impact of weather events stretches far beyond damaged polling places and displaced voters.

Across the nation, from deep-red Louisiana to bright-blue California and in races, from city councils to the presidency, climate events are sparking new political engagement and awareness.

The economy is a major concern for voters in battleground states, and expert climate communicator David Marshall observes the economic impact of extreme weather is likely to be of interest to them. In 2023 alone, the U.S. faced 28 billion-dollar weather events, resulting in $92.9 billion in damage. Additionally, extended recovery times underscore the need for stronger government action, creating opportunities for positive change. As political scientist Daniel Aldrich puts it, “Disasters typically increase voter turnout. Either people are really pissed or they’re thrilled — the government actually came through for them.”

While climate disasters in coastal and wildfire-prone states grab headlines, swing states are feeling the heat too. Hurricane Debby’s recent life-threatening flooding in Georgia and Wisconsin’s past smoggy summer are stark reminders of climate change’s reach.

In Arizona’s deeply conservative La Paz County, the top concern is not inflation or illegal immigration–it’s the shrinking water supply. A recent survey indicates that 60% of voters believe the state is running out of water. By connecting these disasters to climate change and spotlighting candidates who prioritize disaster recovery, we can elevate climate issues as a crucial factor in swing state elections.

Climate advocates are already rallying behind the cause. Science Moms, a nonpartisan group of climate scientists, recently launched a $2.5 million “Stop Unnatural Disasters” ad campaign in Wisconsin and beyond, urging voters to consider how climate change impacts their lives when casting their ballots.

The weather is on the ballot this November. Let’s ensure swing state voters know which candidates are committed to tackling these urgent challenges.