Karen Twomey

As someone who teaches social studies, I remind my students every day of an essential truth: Democracy is not a spectator sport.

Thomas Jefferson told us that a free nation demands a well-informed electorate. And when Benjamin Franklin walked out of the Constitutional Convention, his challenge was simple: we have “a republic, if you can keep it.” The power has always belonged to “We the People,” and true democratic accountability rests squarely in our hands. When we sit back, disengage, or lose faith in our public systems, we aren’t just giving up on institutions, we are giving up on ourselves. In this country, we are the government, but only if we show up and claim it.

I don’t just teach that civic power; I live it. Years ago, when our local school board lost touch with our community’s values, I refused to be a bystander. I stepped into the arena, ran for a seat, and served for a decade until our families had the accountable leadership we deserved.

That is the energy our democracy requires right now. Casting a ballot is where your power begins, but real civic agency goes so much further. It means doing the homework to stay sharp, asking the tough questions, and refusing to stay silent. One vote matters, but when you inspire five friends, coworkers, or neighbors to get off the sidelines and join you, you don’t just participate, you move the needle.

When you step into the voting booth, trust the process. Michigan’s elections are run with airtight checks, balances, and bipartisan oversight by dedicated local clerks and election workers who ensure every vote counts. That system works because our neighbors show up to run it. If you want to take it a step further, step up: serve as an election worker, be a challenger, and see democracy transparently from the inside. Find out how to do that here.

Be the accountability. Be the voice. Show up, bring your community with you, and keep our republic strong!