Americans can influence government decision making through standing as a candidate.
Every American citizen is able to stand as a candidate on behalf of a political party or as an independant candidate in a huge range of political offices at a state,local and federal level.
Standing as a candidate - Example & Analysis
Kamala Harris (Democrat) and Donald Trump (Republican) both stood as candidates in the Presidential Race (2024)
This shows that there are number of significant and powerful opportunities for American Citizens to take to office and make political change.
Standing as a candidate - Rebuttal
It seems that only privelledged individuals have the opportunity to stand as a candidate
Campaigning is hugely expensive - particularly the campaign to presidency - giving those with a privileged background more allowance for gaining political power and influence.
Standing as a candidate - Rebuttal (Example and Analysis)
Campaign Advertisement spending reached $1 Billion Dollars in November 2024.
This clearly shows the high costs it takes to have political influence, benefiting those who are wealthy in the political system.
Standing as a candidate - Evaluation
Overall, there are significant restrictions - such as high cost - which are placed on candidates, preventing many citizens from running and therefore limiting the right and ability to influence decision making.
