In the 1990s conservative strategists began to reshape the political landscape with an onslaught of ballot initiatives. State by state, Republicans employed this tactic to slash social programs and roll back rights--most notoriously, with the anti-gay marriage initiatives of 2004--while progressives remained largely on the defensive.

Now, thanks in large part to the efforts of the Ballot Initiative Strategy Center, progressive organizations are learning how to use ballot propositions to promote bold, innovative policy around the country. Launched five years ago, BISC provides state and national advocacy groups with key research and training in effective referendum strategies.

Although ballot initiatives may not be as sexy as high-profile candidate races, they are an important part of this year's mid-term elections. In addition to paving the way for progressive policy strides, referendums can galvanize voters and increase turnout. According to University of Florida professor Daniel Smith, in the past twenty years of midterm elections, each ballot initiative increased turnout, on average, by 2 percentage points.

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