Elections happen every two to four years in the United States of America, and they are followed very closely on the news and social media. In fact, this year the election process has become so controversial that people change channels with the mere mention of the word, “elections.” What is all the fuss about? What is the voting process and who can get involved?
The rules are pretty basic when it comes to voting. The voting process, known as “casting a ballot,” matters to all people living in America. The outcome of a vote can govern how we live our lives, what our taxes might be or even who sits on the Supreme Court of America. Voting is a a serious matter. First of all, the ability to vote gives each American citizen, ages eighteen and up, the right to select the best person, in their opinion, that can do the job to govern our country fairly.
While there is controversy over who makes up the best candidate, our process of primaries allows many candidates to run–and only the best candidate or the one with the most votes will be placed on the general election ballot. The field can have many candidates, and it is our job to get out the word about the candidate we stand behind.
The people we elect to public office are called, “public servants” and work for the Federal Government. The President is the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, which consists of all the military such as the Navy, Army, Air Force and Marine Corps. The Representatives and Senators are the Members of Congress. They hold a very important office, and they make decisions for the whole country because they have the ability to make or change laws that affect each US citizen.
While many people run for local or national government offices, few make the final ballot. The ballot is presented to the voter, and each has a chance to read this ballot and vote for the person they select. Each vote counts and each vote is very important. Many times people who say they will vote for a particular candidate will not show up at the polls–in fact, only a little more than half of those eligible will vote.
As we near election days a great website to bookmark and visit often is Real Clear Politics (http://realclearpolitics.com). On this website you will find many polls and the results, such as the number of electoral votes necessary to win. There is an interactive map that has the electoral votes estimated as well as the states who typically vote Democrat or Republican. The Presidential candidate who reaches 270 electoral votes, or more will win the general election.
Each candidate performs a vital job that impacts each of our lives. And, that is why voting matters for each person old enough to cast a vote. If you are younger learning about the voting process, being educated and informed is just as important. Encourage your parents to vote and be sure to keep our country in your prayers.
Felice Gerwitz is an educator turned homeschool mom and has served the community by writing and publishing, through her company, Media Angels® Inc., and her podcast network, turning three this year: UltimateHomeschoolRadioNetwork.com. Felice hosts a weekly podcast at VintageHomeschoolMoms.com
Great resources:
http://bensguide.gpo.gov/
http://photos.state.gov/libraries/mali/96825/Consular/types_of_elections.pdf
US Constitution online: http://photos.state.gov/libraries/amgov/30145/publications-english/constitution.pdf
