I intend to use this article as the starting point for a pamhlet with the same or similar title. Feel free to add comments or elaborate (or, yes, even debate) in the comments. I will be doing this in a series, so topics not covered here should be covered in future articles.
In today's society, regardless of political affiliation, the majority of Americans seem to think their government is dysfunctional. While it's true that corruption, incompetence, and impropriety seem to be synonymous with politics, it is also true that we have a greater degree of control than we realize. Because we are a government "of the people, by the people, and for the people", our responsibilities in creating a stronger government do not end at the polls, but rather BEGIN there. I intend, in the course of this discussion, to show how you, the average citizen, can have greater input and control in the areas of government that affect your life.
The majority of laws that affect you are made at the state and local level. In all but the largest communities, city council members are highly accessible by the individual, as they realize that every vote matters and that a simple letter to the editor from a dissatisfied constituent can bring an end to their political career. Of all of the levels of government, council members are the most approachable.
Get to now your council representatives. Speak with them honestly and openly, and develop a rapport before you have an issue to discuss with them. Then when you come to them with a concern, they will give your concern greater consideration. Many of them receive so many calls and letters that they simply cannot respond to every one of them, so a sense of familiarity will increase the chance they will listen.
Speak out at council meetings, but not just about the bad that your council is doing. Speak out about the good as well. If your council authorized the resurfacing of your street, or the razing of a condemned house, let them know you appreciate how they helped your neighborhood. Nobody wants to be on the receiving end of complaints all the time, and if you mx the good with the bad, your council members will respect your opinion more.
Vote in every single election, even the munis. I have known politicians who, when contacted by a constituent, will have their staff check whether or not the individual votes in every election. A nonvoter gets no response, but a voter who turns out 100 of the time will be heard, regardless.
Find a candidate you support and campaign for them. Put up yard signs, make phone calls, canvass neighborhoods. If your candidate wins, I guarantee you will be remembered. As you gain experience, you will find your services being desired by candidates at higher and higher levels of government.
Consider running for office yourself. It doesn't have to be a lofty office; a good tactic for those who don't have a lot of time to campaign is to find offices where they have a hard time finding enough candidates (you will find this in almost EVERY area of the country), and keep trying. You may find yourself "elected" to office unopposed. Once you are in office, you will find higher levels of government even more accessible, as you represent a large number of individuals and, with that representation, can influence a fair number of votes.
Join local service organizations, such as the Lions Club, the Rotary, etc. You will find that many prominent businesspersons are members of these types of organizations, and politicians often speak at meetings of these organizations. As a member, this will give you greater access, especially if you help with the setup for these meetings. And again, because of your greater influence within the community, you will make a difference.
If you are a man, I strongly encourage the investment in a navy blue blazer, a pair of neutral colored slacks, a decent tie and a pair of dress shoes (loafers are adequate). While you may feel uncomfortable in these clothes, this attire will give an appearance that is professional enough to convey a stronger message to politicians you are approaching. If you are a woman, similar rofessional attire will accomplish the same result.