Lyft is continuing its decade-long mission of eliminating barriers that hinder people from getting to the polls on Election Day.
On Nov. 5, the rideshare service will offer 50% off ride codes (up to $10) nationwide for all transportation options — including bike or scooter — using the code VOTE24. The promotion is valid from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. in every time zone, making it easier for voters to reach polling places despite logistical challenges.
“Lyft has always believed in removing barriers to transportation, and voting access is no exception,” Heather Foster, Lyft’s senior director and head of global public policy, told AFROTECH™. “This election is further heightened due to the ongoing challenges many communities face in getting to the polls and is more important than ever as new barriers to voting have emerged.”
According to Lyft, there are currently 100,000 fewer polling places available than in the 2020 election, representing a 50% decrease since 2018. As a result of restrictive voting laws, nearly half of the country will encounter obstacles this year.
However, through its LyftUp Voting Access Program, Lyft is committed to providing reliable transportation, encouraging voters to make a difference in their communities and let their voices be heard.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the program, which has helped over 3 million Americans exercise their right to vote since its launch in 2014. Lyft aims to increase ridership for the initiative by 25% in the upcoming election, which features the presidential race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.
“Our targeted partnerships and ride code offerings have proven to be a critical tool for voters, particularly in areas where public transportation is limited,” Foster said. “Each election brings new challenges, but we’ve consistently seen that providing transportation can make a measurable difference in turnout, especially for those who may not otherwise have a reliable way to get to their polling place.”
Research indicates that individuals without vehicles are significantly less likely to vote.
A Harvard University study analyzing administrative data from 6.7 million registered voters found that lack of access to transportation significantly reduces voter turnout, particularly among individuals living farther from polling places.
Lyft’s response to addressing the disparities includes expanding its partnerships with national, nonpartisan civic organizations, such as the NAACP and the League of Women Voters, to enhance electoral access.
Foster asserted that the organizations understand their communities’ specific needs and have a long history of registering and educating voters — expertise and strong community ties that Lyft plans to use to its advantage.
“By working together, we can bolster our efforts, ensuring that more people, especially those in underserved communities, are aware of our discounted rideshare offer and other voting access resources,” Foster said. “These partnerships also help us address local challenges and spread the word in ways that resonate with the communities most affected by voting restrictions and potential barriers to entry.”
Lyft has also developed specific strategies to engage young voters and encourage their participation in the electoral process. The company’s efforts include collaborating with influencers like Sasha Colby, who won Season 15 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and “Love Island” fan favorites Serena Page and Kordell Beckham. Together, they will create content that resonates with younger demographics.
Lyft aims to increase voter turnout by 500,000 new voters by 2028, focusing primarily on inspiring young people during this election and meeting college students — many of whom may be first-time voters — directly where they are.
“As a company committed to inclusivity and access, we knew we had to scale our efforts to ensure people have a way to participate in the democratic process and have their voices heard,” Foster told AFROTECH™.
“At Lyft, we are always working to be a force for good in communities across the country,” she added. “The LyftUp Voting Access Program is a key part of our efforts to help ensure that transportation is not a barrier and provide access to riders across the country.”
