USA #2: Political Participation

Question 1

“Describe, in detail, ways US citizens can participate in politics” (8)

Answer 1

Another way US citizens can participate in politics is by contacting their elected representatives. This means that the representatives have a way to access the public’s opinions. Evidence of this is the az.gov (Arizona) page that you can contact these representatives through.

Another way US citizens can participate in politics by joining an interest group. This means that they can put pressure on the government to create or change laws for their cause. Evidence of this is the NRA (National Rifle Association)

Question 2

“Describe, in detail, what groups may be less likely to participate in politics and why?” (6)

Answer 2

Another reason for a lack of participation is the age of the voters. This means that the youth are less likely to understand the importance of their vote. Evidence of this is that only 55% or voters aged 18-29 voted in the 2020 presidential election (Statista).

Another reason that people may be less likely to vote is their lack of representation. This means that ethnic minorities aren’t very well represented in house of Congress and the House of Representatives compared to white Americans. Evidence of this is that only 25% of the House of Congress is made up of ethnic minorities. (2023)

Question 3

“Describe, in detail, what groups may be more likely to participate in politics and why?” (6)

Answer 3

One reason people may be more likely to participate as because they have good representation. This means that white people have better representation in Congress than any other racial group and therefore are more likely to experience the benefits of voting. Evidence of this is that 75% of Congress is white in 2023.

Another reason people may be more likely to participate because they have a better education. This means that older those with higher education have a better understanding of the importance of politics and voting. Evidence of this is that voter turnout among college students jumped to a record high of 66% in the 2020 presidential election.