GED® Social Studies: Elections, Rights & Civic Participation › 1. Elections and Representation
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1. Elections and Representation

GED® Social Studies: Elections, Rights & Civic Participation · preview lesson

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Elections are how a representative democracy turns public choice into government authority. Citizens vote for officials who make laws, carry out policies, and represent public interests.

Different offices use different election rules. Members of the House of Representatives serve two-year terms and represent districts based on population. Senators serve six-year terms, with two senators from each state. Presidents serve four-year terms and are chosen through the Electoral College system.

The GED® usually focuses on what elections do: transfer power peacefully, make leaders accountable, and give citizens a formal voice. A fair election depends on access to the ballot, accurate counting, clear rules, and public trust.

References: National Archives: America's Founding Documents

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