Kara Cartwright had always been fiercely protective of her online privacy. The writer used a pen name, carefully concealed her face and identity, and maintained her anonymity even in tight-knit writing groups where many of the women knew one another in real life.

She had certainly never announced her birthday on social media.

But with the November 2026 election approaching, Cartwright decided to make an exception. For the first time, she publicly acknowledged her birthday—not because she wanted attention, gifts, or well wishes, but because she had a request.

“Will you pledge to vote?” she asked her followers. “If so, what’s your plan? Mail? Early? On Election Day? Do you have a voting outfit? Tell me everything.”

Then, in keeping with her trademark humor, she added one final request.

“Also, please try not to vote for dirtbags. Happy birthday to me!!!”

For Cartwright, breaking her own rules about privacy was worth it if she could convince even a few people to show up at the........

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