Participating in the Democratic Process
Election Day is just around the corner. On Tuesday, Nov. 6, citizens from across the United States will make their way to the polls to have their voices heard. In Missouri, voters will encounter many important issues on the ballot, including referendums on various proposed laws and amendments to the state constitution. Voters will also be able to select who they wish to represent their interests in both Congress and the Missouri General Assembly for all seats that are currently up for election.
As always, it’s important to take a step back and recognize how fortunate we are to live in a society where every adult citizen has a say in how the government should be run. Our Founding Fathers believed that all governmental power ultimately derived from the people. During each election, Americans of every race, religion and political party are able to engage in a common civic endeavor, coming together to participate in our country’s proud tradition of self-governance. The right to vote is the foundation of our democracy, and I encourage each and every Missourian to participate in this year’s electoral process.
If you have already decided where you stand on the issues, then great! All that’s left for you to do is to go out and vote. If you are still unsure, however, there is plenty of time to become informed. For more information about the various candidates and initiatives that will appear on your ballot, you can visit the Missouri secretary of state’s website at sos.mo.gov/elections. Just click on the “Find Your Polling Place” tab and enter your address to view a sample ballot for your specific jurisdiction.
As always, please feel free to call, email or write with your ideas or concerns. My Capitol office number is (573) 751-1415, my email is dan.hegeman@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 332, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.