For JTF's Reading Pleasure: "What is the Tea Party"

[saden1]

Are people more involved in local elections than national elections? I know they are more vested in local elections but are they more involved and apprised of the candidates that are running?

[Slingin Sammy 33]

Originally Posted by saden1

Are people more involved in local elections than national elections? I know they are more vested in local elections but are they more involved and apprised of the candidates that are running?

I believe turnout for local elections is significantly lower than national. This shouldn't be the case, I agree local elections have as much, if not more direct affect, on a person's daily life. I would bet a dollar to a dime if the state legislatures appointed senators you'd see a big jump in voter turn-out for the state level offices.

[GMScud]

I've always paid more attention to national elections than local, however I do vote in local elections and follow local issues. The national stuff is what gets all the big media coverage of course, so I'm sure that's a big influence.

[saden1]

Originally Posted by Slingin Sammy 33

I believe turnout for local elections is significantly lower than national. This shouldn't be the case, I agree local elections have as much, if not more direct affect, on a person's daily life. I would bet a dollar to a dime if the state legislatures appointed senators you'd see a big jump in voter turn-out for the state level offices.

You are right, turnout would jump simply because of people's desire to have input as to who their senators are. I wonder, however, how these voters will make their decision as to who their local representative is? Is it based on party or policy? Will local turnout rival that of current federal elections turnout?

Also, are state elected official any different than federally elected officials? Compared to federal politicians are local politicians more likely to be punished by the voters if they don't execute the will of the electorate?