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U.S. Elections 2012

Publication: USA Elections in Brief

Free and fair elections are the keystone of any democracy. When voters elect representatives, they elect the leaders who will shape the future of their society. This is why elections empower ordinary citizens: They allow them to influence the future policies of their government, and thus, their own future.
The United States has been a representative democracy since the ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1788—although the electoral tradition began during the colonial era and had its roots in British history. At the link, you will find information about the modern American electoral process and how it works at the federal, state, and local levels. The process, complicated and sometimes confusing, has evolved to ensure universal suffrage to all men and women who are U.S. citizens 18 years of age or older.
Learn about how U.S. Elections work here: http://iipdigital.usembassy.gov/st/english/publication/2012/01/20120104154054ecurb5.835468e-html#axzz1n2EeYPdU.S. Elections in Brief

Free and fair elections are the keystone of any democracy.  When voters elect representatives, they elect the leaders who will shape the future of their society.  This is why elections empower ordinary citizens: They allow them to influence the future policies of their government, and thus, their own future.

The United States has been a representative democracy since the ratification of the U.S. Constitution in 1788 —although the electoral tradition began during the colonial era and had its roots in British history.  At the link below, you will find information about the modern American electoral process and how it works at the federal, state, and local levels.  The process, complicated and sometimes confusing, has evolved to ensure universal suffrage to all men and women who are U.S. citizens 18 years of age or older.

Learn about how U.S. Elections work in the publication USA Elections in Brief.

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