Final answer:
Regular elections are important in representative government as they allow for democracy and popular participation. However, they also have weaknesses, such as low voter turnout and the influence of special interest groups. The requirements for voting in elections may vary depending on the country.
Step-by-step explanation:
In representative government, regular elections play a crucial role in ensuring democracy and popular participation. Elections allow elected officials to understand the will of the people and give citizens the opportunity to select representatives based on their preferences. They also serve as a platform for competition between political parties and interest groups, encouraging candidates to be open about their objectives and plans.
However, popular elections also have weaknesses. One weakness is voter turnout, as a significant number of registered voters may not actually participate. Other weaknesses include the influence of special interest groups in elections and the potential for voters to be misinformed or make decisions based on personal factors rather than policy considerations.
In terms of who can vote in elections, the requirements vary depending on the country. In the United States, common requirements to vote include being a citizen, being at least 18 years old, and being registered to vote. Other countries may have different criteria such as automatic or compulsory voter registration.