Tuesday was Election Day. Today - and until November 8, 2011 - it's not. Does that mean we stop caring about the candidates and issues for a whole year?
Of course not! Being a smart, active citizen means you stay on top of the issues and keep track of the candidates who have been elected into office. Here are some things you can do:
Over the next few days, look for election results.
- Analyze the results.
- Compare how different media sources report the same news.
- Compare turnout in different places across the county, state and country.
- Were there any surprises? Have any major changes happened because of the election?
- Does voter turnout in the US the same as it is in other countries? Why or why not?
- Did the student vote match the adult vote? Why or why not?
Keep track of the winning candidates. Most will be sworn into office in December and January.
- Do they make good decisions?
- Do they keep their campaign promises?
- Are they exhibiting leadership qualities? Like what?
- Are they operating as politicians? How?
Read what candidates promised at CharMeckVotes, candidate websites and Kids Voting's student interviews (view on Facebook or Slideshare)
Get involved.
- Follow the issues you care about.
- Watch or attend government meetings.
- Email or call officials - let them know what's on your mind!
- If you are a teen, sign up for Kids Voting's programs YouthCivics and Mecklenburg Youth Voice.
