Wednesday, August 29, 2012

State Representatives


What is a State Representative? Each state is a little different, but is generally the same in that state representatives are voted for by the people of the state to represent them in the state legislature. This is where laws pertaining the the individual state are made. State Representatives work with State Senators to make laws. Both houses (the Senate and Representatives) work together to make law, and if a bill (that wants to become law) passes it goes on to the governor. The governor either veto's the bill, lets the bill pass into law by not doing anything for 10 days, signs the bill into law, or sends it back to the legislature with recommended changes.

State Representatives each represent a district. It is important to find out what district you are living in, and who is representing you. This way you can look at their voting record and see if they are supporting your interests. If not, then look into different candidates and vote for a different candidate in the next election.

If you live in Massachusetts you can find out what district you live in on this website:


It is also important to find out when to vote in your state. To find out the election dates for your state, click on the link below:


These individuals are meant to represent the people of their district when working to pass laws. In order for this to work, citizens of those districts need to be active participants. Representatives have the power to make a big difference in the lives of people living in a state, and its important that we do our part, as the general population, to make sure these differences are for the better.

As President John F Kennedy said, "the ignorance of one voter in a democracy impairs the security of all."