Final answer:
Generally, people are more interested and involved in local issues, as they have a more direct and immediate effect on daily life. This is reflected by the saying 'All politics is local,' emphasizing that local concerns are significant for both citizens and politicians. Local news and social media play critical roles in facilitating dialogue and addressing local governmental and economic policies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question at hand explores whether people are generally more interested in and concerned about what happens close to home. The essence of the saying "All politics is local" addresses this concept. The phrase, coined by former House Speaker Tip O'Neill, implies that local concerns typically have the most direct impact on individuals and are therefore often of greatest interest to them. This is supported by evidence that local news, despite often having fewer resources, plays an important role in covering local government and economic policy, issues which have immediate effects on citizens' lives. Additionally, local and social media serve as platforms for discussion and protest about community matters.
Moreover, the involvement of citizens in topics such as property tax rates, school district policies, town hall meetings, or local forums, further reflect the significant personal investment in local affairs. While participation rates in local politics might be low, the issues of crime, violence, education, environmental protection, and healthcare delivery – all profoundly influencing people's daily lives – necessitate citizen involvement at state and local levels. Although national issues capture attention in headlines, it is the state and local government that provide essential services and have a more palpable impact on the quality of life.