Political Participation

There are many ways American citizens can participate in the political process other than voting. Although voting is the most popular form of participation, it is still not heavily practiced. In the United States, only fifty to sixty percent of the population votes in presidential elections and forty two percent in congressional elections. This is the result of low voter turnout rather than apathy. Although voter turnout is low, other forms of political participation have increased. This paper will discuss the participants and their impact on the political process through various activities.
The numerous activities which can be performed for a political purpose can entail things like wearing a pin or planting a sign with a candidate’s name on it, to taking part in a violent overthrow of the government. These, along with contributing money, circulating and signing petitions, attending meeting of governing agencies, and being a part of a political party or interest group are likewise forms of political participation. The people involved in these activities include voters and non-voters of all ages, races, backgrounds, and denominations. Participation does not require voter registration, which is the primary reason for low v

Campaigning for political parties can be very advantageous. This increases participation in many ways. Campaigning provides the public with information on the candidate and those taking part in the campaign enjoy the socializing. Those not even involved in campaigning can still participate by contributing money in support of the candidate; this can greatly help the candidate because of the very expensive campaigns. The distribution of information on their candidate by handing out fliers, hanging up posters, wearing pins, and placing signs in your front yard attracts attention to that campaign and their issues. This creates interest in the public who then forms an opinion, either for or against the candidate. The result of this, if the issues are widely accepted or denounced, is greater voter turnout in those who want to voice their opinion.

Other activities such as contacting public officials, attending meetings, circulating and signing petitions, and demonstration are also very effective. The advantages of contacting public officials are that you give specific opinions and concerns telling what really matters to the common citizen. This is important especially in contrast to voting. With voting, you cannot specify your concerns or allow the elected to evalua