Election is a process through which citizens choose representatives to make policy on their behalf. In modern democracy this entails choosing candidates for public office, or voting on ballot issues such as taxes, spending, and laws. Elections can take place at the local, state or national level. They may be partisan or non-partisan, and are generally held at regular intervals.
The level and type of elections have a major effect on turnout rates, with higher turnout rates in national than in local or state elections. Partisanship also affects turnout rates, with supporters of political parties voting more often than those without a party affiliation. Voter fatigue can cause low turnout, as well as problems with gerrymandering and wasted votes (such as when ballots are not counted or counted correctly).
Candidates run campaigns in order to convince voters to support them, using slogans, promises, images and other tactics. Campaign financing is a crucial factor, and the amount of money a candidate raises is often a reflection of their attractiveness as a politician. Research how different political donations can influence a candidate’s policies.
Elections are a crucial element of a democracy, but they can be corrupted by bad actors. Investigate ways to prevent corruption, such as by promoting transparency in the election process and investigating whether political propaganda is being spread. Discuss other forms of civic participation beyond voting, such as writing letters to the editor, volunteering for political campaigns, or attending town hall meetings.