Importance of Political Participation in the Formulation of Public Policy

Political Science
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Political Science
Political participation is a very important process in democratic societies. It is through the voting process that the citizens of a country are able to choose the government to propel the development process. There are political preferences that exist among the citizens, thus the opportunity to participate in elections plays an important role in choosing the leaders of choice by every citizen. In the United States, political participation through the voting process is taken very seriously, considering that it is the world’s super power. The statistics of the election of 2008, for instance, shows that voting in the U.S is a critical link between the citizens and the government.
Political participation in the United States is exercised in different ways. For example, the people can communicate directly to their legislators by voicing their concerns. The legislators, in turn, represent the interests of the citizens in the policy making process (Johannesen, 2010). Another way of political participation is through voting for the leaders the citizens believe will address their issues accordingly. Through this process, the politicians who are not performing well are removed from office. Additionally, the citizens are also involved in campaign contributions to fund the election process. Usually, the election process requires finances to run the affairs involved. Therefore, citizens have the opportunity to support the financial needs of their preferred leaders to give them the required impetus to take power. Of great importance still, being part of interest groups is a fundamental way in allowing citizens to contribute in public policy and the political process. As members of special interest groups, citizens are able to push for issues that affect their daily lives.
In 2008, the election of the U.S showed voting patterns that are very sign...