Quick Write-Ultimate Rulers President Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “Let us never forget that government is ourselves. The ultimate [fundamental] rulers of our democracy…are the voters of this country.” What did President Roosevelt mean when he said that the ultimate rulers of our democracy are the voters?

Who Can Vote? BIG IDEA: The right to vote is one of the fundamental rights of citizens in a democratic society.

Qualifying to Vote Voting is both a right and responsibility People who were banned from voting previously: – White adult men who did not own property – Women – African American males – Native American males – People under the age of 21

Voting Rights Today: – cannot be denied because of race, color, gender, or age (if at least 18 years old) – can be denied to people convicted of serious crimes Voter Registration – Required 25 days before an election in most states – State requirements vary – Information needed for voter registration forms – Identity proof needed to register for first-time voters

Steps in Voting Voters cast their ballot at a polling place in their precinct (voting district) – Sample ballot posted at entrance – Clerks and challengers have responsibility – Election judges are also present

Types of Ballots – “Butterfly Ballot”: opposing candidates listed across from each other – Punch-card Ballot: punch hole next to name of candidate, ran through machine – Computerized Ballot: ballots that are on the computer – Secret Ballot: protection of our right to make choices without fear – Absentee Ballot: allows person to vote without having to go to the polls on Election Day

After Voting – Election workers take returns (ballots and results) to the election board – Election board sends returns to state canvassing authority – Exit polls (a survey taken at polling places of how people voted) used to predict election results – Media projections may influence voters

Why Your Vote Matters Be Informed: – Ask yourself questions (reliable, honest? Believe what I believe?) Electorate (all those eligible to vote)

Why Some People do NOT vote: – Not meeting state requirements – Not registered – Views not represented by candidates – Vote won’t make a difference – Apathy (lack of interest)

Why Some People Do Vote: – Positive attitudes towards government and citizenship – Education, age, and income – Gives a chance to choose government leaders – Gives a chance to voice opinions

Why Your Vote Matters With a partner create a poster to tell your peers why their vote will matter in the future.