How you can be part of an election

Be informed
An informed voter is the best kind of voter. Stay up to date on local and national elections with the Web, TV coverage, newspapers, and magazines. When you know the issues and the facts, you’re better able to talk to others about them, and you’ll be more than ready when it comes time to vote in your first real election.

Get involved at school
Your school is one of the best places to get involved in the political process. With your teachers’ help, you can.

Hold a debate
You and your fellow students can stage a debate where you argue for one candidate or another, or debate local or national issues and laws. You can even hold a debate where you actually play the role of a candidate, and speak as if you were him or her!

Invite a local leader to your school
Ask your teacher to arrange for your congressperson, mayor, or any elected official to give a talk to your class. This is a great way to learn about the “hot” issues affecting your community.

Elect class officers
If your school doesn’t have elections for class president, treasurer, etc., talk to your teachers and principal about it. Electing your own student representatives will give you a say in what goes on in your school, and a taste of what it takes to govern.



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