The Constitution established the United States as a democratic republic. It is democratic because the people govern themselves, and it is a republic because the government’s power is derived from its people. This means that our government, at the federal, state, and local levels, is elected by the citizens.
 

Citizens vote for their government officials, who then represent the concerns and ideas of the citizens in government.

For example, the Governor is elected by the voters in a given state. The Governor is the head of the state's executive branch. Voting is one of the most essential ways for American citizens to participate in democratic processes and express their views on issues that affect them.

Voters may want to make changes in their community, such as building larger schools, adding new roads, or addressing workforce needs. Everyone can contact the government officials when they want to support or propose a change to a law. ​