Election in the USA

Elections have been a part of society since the beginning of time. The word "elect" means to choose or make a decision. In the early seventeenth century in North America and Europe the idea of having a representative government began to form the type of elections we see today. Modern elections ask the population of citizens to make a decision on which candidate they wish to have represent them. The two most well known parties in our political circle are the Republicans and the Democrats. However if neither of these parties share your views there are many others to choose from.

Held every four years, presidential elections always seem to gain the attention they deserve. However there are elections held all over the country, nearly 80,000 every year. Each electoral cycle is estimated to fill over a million elected offices. These smaller elections allow us to choose our state senators, representatives, governors, attorney generals and other important roles. Following the ratification of the constitution the first presidential election was held in 1789. George Washington was elected along with John Adams as his vice president. These two men became the leaders of the first executive branch. Originally allowed to cast two votes for a candidate by an elector an amendment was set in place in 1804 to require them to place a separate vote for their choice of president and vice president. The right to vote has not always been available to all citizens and it was not until 1920 when women first made their choice for president.

In America one becomes eligible to vote when they reach the legal age of 18. States must also not discriminate against citizens based on age, sex or race. States can regulate votes by not allowing those convicted of felonies to vote. Registering to vote is extremely important and citizens cannot place their vote without doing so. The only state that does not require you to register is North Dakota. For those wishing to do so, you may be able to register at many federal funded service buildings. These include libraries and schools. Citizens are also asked to register when receiving a state ID or license. The most cherished right in America can also be one of the most taken for granted. The more voters that exercise their right and speak their voice during an election the better balanced their society will be.