In a time where news is at our fingertips and 24/7 news channels thrive, it’s easy to get lost in the noise of local headlines, dramas, and gossip. However, national politics and issues should never be ignored- and here’s why.
Power, Decisions, and How They Affect You
At the end of the day, national politics and decisions made by those in power affect every single person in the country. Be it healthcare, social security, environmental regulations, tax laws or foreign relations. These policies affect a wide range of topics that go beyond your immediate surroundings and have a lasting impact on your daily life.
For example, the Affordable Healthcare Act, signed in by Obama in 2010, brought coverage to millions of people who previously couldn’t afford insurance. Similarly, tax reforms in 2017 have drastically changed not only how much citizens pay in taxes but also how much revenue the government has to fund programs such as education, infrastructure and scientific research.
The impact of national policy doesn’t end solely with finances either. Environmental decisions can have a long-lasting effect on the quality of air and water, trade pacts can impact job growth, and foreign policy decisions can affect international relations.
One Vote Makes a Difference
It’s easy to feel like an individual’s vote doesn’t matter, especially in a world where money can largely influence elections. However, this is not always the case, and in several past elections, the difference between the winning candidate and losing one has been very small.
For instance, in the United States presidential elections of 2000, Bush and Gore’s campaigns were separated by a mere 537 votes in Florida, determining who would win the 25 electoral votes and ultimately, the presidential election. Even in less publicized local elections, close outcomes are not uncommon, and every vote can make a meaningful difference.
It is important to understand that every election result has the potential to reshape national policy and demographics. Several political historians agree that one vote has made historical changes in the country.
Accountability and Transparency
One of the unspoken benefits of national politics being in the spotlight is the transparency that politicians may feel compelled to deliver. Political heat can often be enough to hold officials accountable and help ensure they are considering the needs of the average citizen.
By staying aware of national politics and decisions made by the government, citizens can hold elected officials accountable for not only the decisions they make but also the information they choose to disclose. In recent years, an increase in transparency laws, journalist investigations coupled with public interest, have ensured that national politicians are working to protect the public’s interest, gaining the trust of their public.
What You Can Do to Stay Informed and Get Involved?
Getting involved and being informed doesn’t always have to require significant effort. Several free, widespread news outlets can provide a wealth of information about national politics.
Start by following national news sources, checking major websites such as NPR, BBC, Reuters, and the New York Times. These news outlets feature countless articles on political issues, polls, and interviews. Similarly, social media channels can be a great route to keep up with political news, and influencers can provide unique, informative perspectives and opinions.
Additionally, it’s important to engage in civic activities. This includes attending community meetings, town halls, and even participating in political demonstrations. It provides political platforms to convey problems faced by communities or individuals and steps towards effective policy changes, thus bringing about more social welfare.
Lastly, individuals can also create or participate in a support group that focuses on common issues, organizing debates, the sharing of information or making comprehensive policies, bringing issues to the attention of local representatives for effective change.
Summary
In short, national politics should not be ignored. The policies created by national-level officials have a direct impact on the lives of the average citizen. It is crucial to stay informed to hold officials accountable and make sure they act in the public interest.
National elections can also have a considerable impact, and every vote counts, regardless of an individual’s socio-economic or demographical status. The government must be transparent and accountable to its citizens, thus making it easier for citizens to engage and get involved when and where necessary.
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