Article : WASHINGTON, D.C. (Achieve3000, October 21, 2020). Sure, the U.S. president is powerful. But guess who that VIP works for? You.
Not just you, of course. The president works for all Americans. In the U.S., leaders answer to all the people they represent. That includes many state and city leaders. See? You rule!
In fact, these leaders can thank the American people for their jobs. The U.S. is a democracy. In a democracy, citizens choose leaders by voting. Let's look at how U.S. elections work.
When Do Elections Happen?
When an election is coming up, it's easy to tell. There are ads for candidates on TV, radio, and social media. Signs pop up all over town. Campaign workers knock on voters' doors. They try to make a convincing case for their candidate.
City and state elections can take place in any year or month. Presidential elections, however, happen every four years. They're always in early November. On Election Day, many Americans go to a voting center. But sometimes people vote in person earlier or vote by mail.
Who Can Vote?
Just about all U.S. citizens who are at least 18 years old can vote. People under 18 are not allowed to vote. But they can speak out. They can share their opinions. Their ideas might help voters make choices. Some teens can work at voting centers. They can earn money while helping their country.
Why Is Voting Important?
Elected leaders pass laws that make a big difference in Americans' lives. They make choices about schools and health. They make decisions about business and the environment. By choosing candidates who share their opinions, voters can help shape the future. Believe it or not, many citizens pass up the chance to vote.
But the more people take part in democracy, the better it works. That's why leaders aren't the only VIPs with important jobs to do. Voters are, too!