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Twenty seven years ago,after my citizenship ceremony I registered as voter.In all elections,local,state and national I participated very active.I read all prospects regarding the measures placed on the ballot of elections.I felt that the citizenship offered me the best way to express my own opinion about the measures,candidates posted on the election buletin.

I was extremely confused and disappointed,when all members of my staff in the office didn't care to register for vote.I brought the registration form for 6 native Americans,between 25-47 years old ,to fill in the application. All six people showed lack of interest in the voting process.

I asked why they are not involved in the " national process of management of our country"?The answer was more than childish.We are not interested in this.Or ,how we can change something.The government will do what they like not what we need.We feel out of the circle where they make decissions.

These several explanations gave me an answer, for the general national low percentage of voters.

This apathy is dangerous and is spread among young people.In the election day ,if you have time to see who are the voters,you will be surprized by the high number of people over 60 years of age.At the voting centers,the voluntary staff is also recruited from the senior group.

Why the seniors are acive in the elections at all levels?.
First,the senior people have more free time to read,to inform about measures and candidates.The life style of the seniors depends on the continue changes of the rules,regulations,measures and laws.In the majority of cases these changes have a negative effect on their lifestyle.In this manner they have to be informed and to act in their own interest.
Second,the seniors have a better understanding of the political process in our country.They have more knowledges regarding the Government function.They know where they have to ask,write for changes or decissions.
Third,both powerful parties maintain a better communication with the seniors and veterans,than with the young groups.In this manner the seniors appreciate the courtezy of these two parties.

The young people don't have developed the feeling and conviction to be a part of the national management process.They are very easy disappointd by the political scandals.They see only the negative aspects of our representatives.They believe that our representatives are crouks,irresponsible for the jobs,working only in their social,financial,relationships and increasing political power.

This aspect has a very important effect on the electorate.We have to know that the big majority of our representatives in the Government are honest,hardworking,patriots who spend a lot of time and energy for the American people.Our Democracy is so different by the other countries and to assure a balance of power they have to be informed prior to making a decission.

I believe that in our schools,colleges and universities ,the education in developing the citizenship responsibility,is neglected.My grandchildren are educated in the public schools how to fight with society,being encouraged to refuse enrolment in military service or to defeat the rules and laws.The notion of freedom,under all aspects is spread in the dangerous manner.

These are several aspects behind the apathy of American people for the election process.

Learn more about this author, Peter Akermann.
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