Voting in State or Local

Voting in State or Local Elections

Citizens of a country will participate in the electoral process in different ways. This will have an impact upon their political views and the levels of involvement in various elections. The reason why is: because their experiences and the perceived levels of changes are addressing the needs of the community. Depending upon how quickly the government is able to focus on these needs, means that various opinions and involvement in political activities will vary from one nation to the next.

During the last three elections held in my country (the U.S.A.), I participated as a voter and as a volunteer with: a responsibility to ensure that everyone turns out to polling stations. The first was to exercise my right as a citizen and the second was because I wanted to contribute to my country (to ensure that everyone was given a chance to have their voice heard).

Recently, I conducted a survey on "political participation in elections." I questioned several individuals above the age of 18 years old, as to their participation in various: local, state and national elections. Most of these people I interviewed told me that the way they participated in the election process was by voting. When asked, "Why did they vote;" the answer given (by most) was that it was their democratic right to do so. as, they are helping to choose the best person to address the various problems affecting their: community, state and nation. This is important in the U.S., as choosing the right candidate for political office is a big issue. Furthermore, a favorable answer was given by two respondents who were leaning towards various political persuasions. as, they were influenced on a host of issues ranging from: abortion to the size of government. The reason why, is because they are following the philosophy that is embraced by political leaders they support. This had an impact upon their levels of participation, as they were more actively involved in the process from the very beginning.

One friend of mine who participated in this interview ran for a position in local government and lost. When asked why he ran for public office, his answer was that he wanted to represent his fellow citizens as well as to make a positive contribution in the community. When asked if he would run for office again, his answer was, "No, times have changed." I hope that just like my friend, the reason why everyone is running for office is to represent the interests of the people.

The pattern that has been emerging is: that most people are concerned with finding the right person for the position. as, they are exercising their democratic right by: participating in the voting process. In my opinion, the most important way for someone to participate in the electoral process is: to vote and thus exercise their democratic rights. Each of us must see this as necessity, because it gives us a small voice in the decision making process of government.

However, the overall political tone between the different sides has been increasingly becoming more negative and aggressive. This is problematic, because it means that most people will feel alienated during the political process. At which point, they will more than likely become frustrated with these events and will stop taking part in these activities.