217. Election Day

Ken received many reminders in the mail in weeks leading up to the first Tuesday in , Election Day. From before the time he became United States citizen, he looked forward to being to choose who would represent him in the levels of government. Shortly after taking the citizenship , Ken filled out a short paper form, registering to vote and choosing a political party affiliation. appreciated that choosing a specific political party didn't whom he could vote for, though. He was to vote for someone of the party he under. He could even vote for someone of different party. Since his vote was secret, no would know anyway.

Now that he was a citizen, Ken spent many hours looking over the voter guides that appeared in his mailbox. On national level, Ken could vote for president, members the Congress. On the state level, Ken could for state congress people and governor of the . Locally, Ken could cast a vote for mayor, council persons, and local school board members.

He a little overwhelmed by the choices. Besides getting about the various candidates, he saw many commercials each candidate's position on various issues. There were televised debate, which helped show what the candidates in common and how they differ.

Ken was on the day he went to vote. He to his local polling place. A poll worker for Ken's name and address to verify he registered. Ken confirmed his registration by signing next his name. Then he was given a ballot led to a booth where he had to some tough choices.