What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?

Voting and running for office are two fundamental ways in which Americans can engage in their democracy. Voting is a critical means for citizens to express their opinions and make decisions about their government officials and policy issues during elections. It provides individuals with the power to influence the direction of their community and country by choosing representatives who align with their values and priorities.

Running for office allows individuals to actively participate in the political process by seeking positions of authority and leadership within the government. This option empowers citizens to advocate for changes and initiatives that they believe in, directly shaping how local, state, or federal governance is conducted. Both of these actions—voting and seeking elected positions—are essential components of a functioning democracy, as they ensure that citizens have a voice and a choice in how they are governed.

The other choices, while they do involve civic engagement, do not capture the primary ways in which citizens can directly influence the democratic process as effectively as voting and running for office do.