Citizens in the American Political System

The American political system affords citizens a wide range of opportunities to participate in and influence the political process. Through voting, writing letters, contributing to campaigns and even running for office, ordinary people can shape public policy.

Modes of Participation

Unlike the citizens of many countries, Americans have a seemingly endless number of opportunities to participate in the political process. Through a variety of activities, they can express their views and otherwise influence politicians and other government officials. Chief among these is the right of all citizens over the age of eighteen to vote. Eligible voters have a voice in choosing literally thousands of local, state and national leaders.

In addition to voting, people are free to:

• Contribute money to political campaigns (within legally established limits)
• Work as volunteers for political candidates
• Circulate petitions
• Communicate with elected officials in person or in writing
• Stage and participate in protests
• Exert influence on the political system in dozens of other ways (bumper stickers, letters to the editor, yard signs, forming & participating in interest groups, etc.)

One of the most important tools a citizen must have to participate effectively is accurate and timely information. Acquiring such information is easier today than it has ever been. Vast amounts of information about the government and politicians are available with a few mouse clicks. E-mail has made contacting political leaders inexpensive and less time consuming. Not only are politicians, government agencies, interest groups and political parties able to use web sites to disseminate information, but average people have the ability to do the same. Today, private citizens, without ever leaving their homes, can communicate with a wider audience of their fellow citizens than anyone would have dreamed possible just a few years ago.