Participation in the Political ProcessIn Texas, voting and elections have raised many concerns due to political changes over the past decade. Much like other Americans, Texas displays many of the same voting trends. It is important to participate in the political process, with political participation incorporating how citizens influence the choice of issues of interest to them or political leaders. “The actions of citizens are aimed at solving public problems by political means” (American). Political participation is not limited to a certain party. Individuals can get involved in certain phases of the electoral process by participating in politics in several ways, including voting, campaigning for candidates, and writing to their legislators. The media also play an important role in providing opportunities for political participation. The right to vote gives citizens the opportunity to participate in government, meaning that all citizens, aged 18 or older, can help decide who will be elected to a certain government position. government. For example, they can help decide who will be state legislators, governor, lieutenant governor, and even judges. As a voting public, citizens can also choose county and city officials, including county commissioners, county judges, mayors, and city council members. Voters can also help make decisions on important key issues that affect their lives. Citizens also vote on local laws and at the state level, citizens can even vote on amendments to the constitution. “Voting is not only a right but also a civic responsibility” (Juneau). “When people don't vote, they don't help improve their government or their environment” (Juneau). This means that a citizen... middle of paper ...... there are many types of special interest groups that represent business, agriculture, and labor unions. A list of others includes women; Low-income citizens, teachers, and minority groups, special interest groups can be very powerful. People often join a political party because they agree with the party's program. “A political platform is a series of positions on political issues that is used to promote a particular political party or candidate is a set of positions supported by the party” (Wise). The two main political parties in the United States are the Democrat and the Republican. News media has always made it easy for voters to stay informed. Whether in newspapers, radio stations or television, they are always broadcasting different elections and spending a lot of time covering them on the news. Books and magazines can also be valuable sources of information..