NEP's Union Strong Stories from the Front Lines: IAFF Local 642

Ballot Box Victory: How Fargo Firefighters Won 70% Support for Safer Staffing

When firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect their community, they deserve adequate staffing to keep both civilians and first responders safe. That's exactly what Fargo Firefighters IAFF Local 642 fought for—and won—with the passage of Measure 3.

The Challenge

Fargo Firefighters knew their community deserved better fire protection, and their firefighters deserved safer working conditions. But knowing you're right and winning at the ballot box are two different things. That's where strategic digital advocacy made all the difference.

The Approach

NEP's Digital Advocacy Team partnered with IAFF Local 642 throughout their campaign, focusing on three key elements:

• ‍Building the Foundation: Using NEP's Audience Builder program, the Digital Advocacy Team helped Local 642 grow their Facebook presence before the campaign even launched. Why? Because you can't reach voters on Election Day if you haven't built the audience to reach them.‍
• Targeted Outreach: The Digital Advocacy Team deployed strategic digital ads designed to educate Fargo residents about why Measure 3 mattered—not just for firefighters, but for every family in the community who might need emergency response.‍
• Empowering the Local: NEP didn't just run a campaign for Local 642—they were given the tools and training to have their organization effectively communicate with their neighbors, friends, and community members throughout the process.

The Results

Measure 3 passed with 70% voter approval.

That's not just a win—that's a mandate. It's proof that when you give working people the right tools and the right strategy, they can move their community in a powerful way.

The Takeaway

Here's what IAFF Local 642's victory teaches us: Winning campaigns are built before Election Day.

You can't wait until the final weeks to start building your audience, crafting your message, and engaging your community. The groundwork matters. The preparation matters. The strategy matters.

And when locals have the support they need to tell their story effectively? The results speak for themselves.

NEP was proud to stand with Fargo Firefighters IAFF Local 642 every step of the way. Their victory is a reminder that when we fight together, we win together.

Interested in learning how NEP's Digital Advocacy team can support your local's campaign? Get in touch with us today.