Citizens and Government

Why are politics a necessary part in our democracy?

People have differing ideas about what is important and what should be done

about it.

Participation in Politics

Some people join political parties and become active in local and

state political organizations

Participation in Politics

Some participate by contributing money to a candidate or political

organization

Participation in Politics

Others campaign for individuals (or issues) or become candidates

themselves.

Voting Restrictions

Every U.S. citizen who is at least 18 years old has the right to vote freely and in

secret.

**Though this has not always been the case**

National Offices Georgia Citizens Vote For

Executive positions that GA citizens vote for

• 1. President

• 2. Vice President

Legislative positions that GA citizens vote to represent the people of GA

• U.S. Senator (2)

• U.S. Representative • 1 per district

• 13 representatives in all

How do general elections differ from special elections?

General Elections• Held on Tuesdays after the

1st Monday of November in even numbered years

• Vote for national, state, and local officials

Special Elections• Can be held at almost any

time

• Used to fill vacant positions when an officeholder dies or resigns

What is a referendum?

When citizens vote on an issue

Can occur in either a general or special election

Ex. Raise the local sales tax

Ex. Allow Sunday liquor sales

What is meant by the term “open”

primary?

Both the Democratic and Republican primaries are open to

any registered voter. You don’t have to be a member of one party

or the other.

However, a voter cannot vote in both primaries.

Why, and when, are runoff elections

held?

If no one receives a majority of votes, a runoff is held between

the two candidates with the highest vote totals.

Runoffs are scheduled three weeks after the election.