We The People, The American Elections

Part 7c: Elections, Influence, Power and Lines of Impact

My Speech to You All

Rise, I implore you, and take to your computers. Every spare moment should be devoted to mastering the intricacies of your election process. Identify every position within your state, county, and local government. The gravity of this task is beyond measure. The eyes of our children are upon us. What political legacy did our parents leave us? A void. This is not a quick fix; it will require at least a decade, perhaps even a generation. Our children and grandchildren are the ones we aim to educate and inspire, showing them through our actions how civic duty is to be performed. You must delve deep. The following article provides a general outline of local elections, the election process, and the dynamics of influence and power within our local government.

At the end, you will find task orders that you can follow, modify, and adapt to suit your needs. These task orders are merely examples, but they can be followed to the letter or adjusted to meet your specific requirements. Mark my words, if we do not employ this plan of action to monitor and safeguard our elections, we are doomed. We are decades behind the Democrats; we have waited far too long to get involved at the local level.

The Republican National Committee, my party, I call you out now. I am deeply disappointed. The website is superficial, devoid of actionable ideas or plans. Contrast this with the Democrats' website, brimming with plans, techniques, and suggestions. We need to seize the initiative, ladies and gentlemen, and reclaim our party. Whoever is currently at the helm is steering it poorly. It almost seems intentional. This is our party now. We must rise to the occasion and take command.

The clamor of discourse on Twitter and various other platforms reverberates with intensity, yet the scarcity of actionable plans is glaring. I have proposed a series of action plans. 'We The People Part Four, Five, Six, and Seven' are not merely political strategies; they are a clarion call that transcends the act of casting a vote. 'We The People, The American Elections Part 7C' also outlines a comprehensive plan. The path is clearly marked; all that remains is for you to assemble your team and march forward in its execution.

The epoch of making excuses has expired. The time for contemplating theories about the potential future of the United States, or who might wield control, has passed. The only viable solution lies in grassroots engagement and local transformation. The alternative is a path that less than 1% of us could endure, let alone triumph in. Reflect on this reality. Regardless of the ire this may provoke, less than 1% of us could withstand the fallout if we fail to rectify this issue appropriately.

Therefore, we must discard these theories; they yield no benefit. We must reclaim our country the right way, the way our founding fathers envisioned, and it wasn't with muskets and powder. That's a last resort, and again, less than 1% of us could manage that. This is a fact. I've observed highly trained individuals barely sustain their moral compass through a single combat deployment, let alone three, seven, or fourteen. I grow weary of hearing people discuss this, particularly those who wouldn't endure an hour in such circumstances.

Our Constitution is not the possession of a privileged few. This country belongs to no one but us, the people. Let's cease idle chatter and take decisive action. Let's exemplify to future generations the true essence of civic involvement. White propaganda will be on full display in this article. Patriotism matters.

My Speech to You All

Table of Contents

Section 1. Local Elections

Section 2. Election Process

Section 3. Influence, Power and Lines of Impact

Section 4. Plan of Action for Citizen-Led Monitoring of Local Elections

Summary

Section 1: Local Elections

Local elections, a fundamental element of our constitutional republic, play a crucial role in our political system in the United States. They provide the means through which citizens at the grassroots level elect their representatives and express their views on a variety of issues that directly impact their daily lives. From electing mayors, city council members, and school board officials, to deciding on local ordinances, tax levies, and bond issues, local elections shape the quality of life in our communities.

These elections can take various forms, including primary and general elections, nonpartisan and partisan elections, at-large and district elections, among others. They can also involve different voting mechanisms such as referendums, initiatives, and recall elections. The diversity of these forms reflects the complexity and richness of our republic, allowing for broad citizen participation and representation.

While local elections may not garner the same level of attention as national elections, their impact on our lives is no less significant. They determine local policies on education, public safety, infrastructure, zoning, and many other issues that affect us on a daily basis. Local governments often serve as 'laboratories of democracy,' experimenting with policies that may later be adopted at the state or national level.

In essence, local elections are a critical aspect of our constitutional republic, offering citizens the opportunity to influence the direction of their communities and hold their local officials accountable. They underscore the principle that, in a republic, the power ultimately resides with the people.

1.1   Types of Local Elections

1.1.1 Many local elections are nonpartisan, and depending on the locality, elections may be at-large or by district. However, the specifics can vary widely depending on the state and type of local government. general overview of the process for local government elections in the United States:

1.1.2 Elections Based on Timing

• Primary Elections: Preliminary elections where political parties nominate candidates for an upcoming general election.

• General Elections: The main elections where voters choose their representatives, from local council members to the president.

• Runoff Elections: A second round of voting that occurs when no candidate achieves the required majority in the first round.

• Special Elections: Elections scheduled at other times than the regular election period, usually to fill a vacant office.

BE UNGOVERNABLE!!

1.1.3 Elections Based on Partisanship

• Nonpartisan Elections: Elections where candidates run without party labels. This is common in many local and judicial elections.

• Partisan Elections: Elections where candidates represent specific political parties.

1.1.4 Elections Based on Geographic Representation

• At-Large Elections: Elections where officials are elected by the entire voting population of a city, state, or country, rather than by constituents of a specific district.

• District Elections: Elections where officials are elected by constituents of a specific district within the city, state, or country.

• Ward Elections: Similar to district elections, but typically used in the context of city councils and other local government bodies.

1.1.5 Elections Based on Specific Issues or Policies

• Local Option Elections: Elections that allow local voters to decide on specific issues, often related to local ordinances or regulations.

• Referendums: Votes by the electorate on a specific question or issue. They can be initiated by the government or by citizens through a petition process.

• Initiatives: Proposed laws or constitutional amendments that are put on the ballot by citizens or interest groups, not by the legislature.

• Special Measures or Propositions: Specific proposals that voters are asked to approve or reject in an election.

• Municipal Bond Elections: Elections where voters decide whether a municipality should be authorized to raise funds through the sale of bonds, typically for large projects like building schools or improving infrastructure.

• Tax Levy Elections: Elections where voters decide whether to approve or reject proposed tax increases.

• Constitutional Amendment Elections: Elections where voters decide whether to approve or reject proposed amendments to the state constitution.

• Zoning Referendums: Votes on changes to local zoning laws.

• School Levy or Bond Elections: Elections where voters decide whether to approve additional taxes, or bonds, to fund schools.

• Public Question Elections: Elections where a public question is put to voters, often related to changes in policy or law.

1.1.6 Elections Based on Removal or Retention of an Official

• Recall Elections: Elections that allow voters to remove elected officials from office before their term is up.

• Retention Elections: Elections where voters decide whether a judge or other appointed official should continue to serve in their position.

1.1.7 Elections Based on Candidate Selection Process

• Open Primary Elections: Primary elections where any registered voter can vote, regardless of their party affiliation.

• Closed Primary Elections: Primary elections where only registered members of a particular political party can vote.

• Semi-Closed Primary Elections: Primary elections where party members and unaffiliated voters can participate.

• Top-Two Primary Elections: Primary elections where all candidates, regardless of party, are listed on one ballot and the top two vote-getters advance to the general election, again regardless of party.

UNITED WE STAND!! DIVIDED WE FALL!!

1.2 Accountability Measure Elections

1.2.1 This category includes elections that allow voters to hold elected officials accountable. This would include:

• Recall Elections: These allow voters to remove an elected official from office before their term is up. Recall elections are typically triggered by a petition process and are a direct way for voters to hold their elected officials accountable.

• Impeachment Elections: While less common at the local level, some jurisdictions may have provisions for impeachment elections to remove officials from office for misconduct.

• Retention Elections: These are common for judicial positions, especially in states that use merit selection for judges. After being appointed, a judge serves for a set period and then faces a retention election, in which voters decide whether the judge should continue to serve.

• Referendums on Legislation: In some jurisdictions, voters can call for a referendum on legislation passed by their local government. This allows voters to approve or reject laws and is a way to hold elected officials accountable for their legislative actions.

• Term Limit Votes: In some cases, voters may be asked to decide on term limits for certain elected offices. This can be a way to hold long-serving officials accountable and ensure turnover in the office.

• Ethics and Transparency Measures: Voters may sometimes be asked to approve measures related to government ethics and transparency, such as campaign finance reforms or open records laws. These measures can help hold elected officials accountable.

1.2.2 The specific types of elections, the offices up for election, and the rules governing those elections can vary significantly from one locality to another, and even from one state to another. The best source of information for the exact types of elections in your area would be your local elections office.

1.2.3 Most local elections offices have websites where you can find information about upcoming elections, the offices that will be on the ballot, and the rules for voting. They can also provide information about issue-based elections and accountability measures that might be specific to your area.

1.2.4 In addition to your local election office, your state’s Secretary of State website often provides comprehensive information about elections at all levels within the state. These resources can help you understand the specific types of elections in your area and how you can participate in them.

PATRIOTS IN CONTROL!! YOU ARE THE PATRIOTS!! TAKE CONTROL!!

Section 2: The Local Election Process

2.1   Election Process

1. Candidate Nomination:

   1. Individuals interested in running for a local government position submit paperwork to the appropriate local election authority. This is known as candidate filing and may include a filing fee.

   2. Some positions may require the candidate to gather signatures from local residents to qualify for the ballot.

2. Candidate Training:

   1. Some jurisdictions or political parties may offer training for candidates, especially those running for the first time. This can include information on campaign finance laws, how to engage with the media, and strategies for effective campaigning.

3. Campaign Period:

   1. Once officially a candidate, individuals will then campaign for the position. This can involve a variety of activities, such as hosting events, distributing campaign literature, and speaking with voters.

   2. During this period, election officials, election commissioners/boards, and voter registration officials play crucial roles in overseeing the electoral process, setting policies, and ensuring that eligible citizens are registered to vote.

4. Voter Education:

   1. Prior to the election, there may be efforts to educate voters about the voting process, the candidates, and the issues at stake. This can involve community meetings, informational websites, and distribution of voter guides.

5. Voting Day Procedures:

   1. On Election Day, poll workers assist voters, verify identification, and maintain order at polling places.

   2. Election judges/inspectors are appointed to work at polling places, assisting voters, and maintaining compliance with election laws.

   3. Absentee/Mail-In Voting Coordinators manage and process absentee or mail-in ballots, ensuring their secure handling.

   4. Voter Outreach Coordinators and advocacy groups promote voter engagement, educate the public, and encourage voter participation.

   5. Election lawyers ensure compliance, resolve disputes, and address legal challenges.

6. Vote Counting:

   1. After the polls close, the process of tabulation and results reporting begins. This involves the counting of votes and the reporting of election results.

   2. The Canvassing Board reviews and certifies election results, verifies vote counts, and resolves disputes.

   3. Election supervisors/administrators oversee day-to-day election operations, manage staff, and ensure smooth processes.

7. Election Recounts:

   1. In some cases, if the results are particularly close, a recount may be required. The rules for when and how recounts are conducted can vary by jurisdiction.

8. Challenges and Litigation:

   1. Sometimes, the results of an election or the conduct of the election process may be challenged in court. This could result in legal proceedings that can impact the final outcome of the election.

9. Post-Election Analysis and Reporting:

   1. After the election, there is a process of election security and auditing. This involves measures to ensure the security of the election process and the conducting of audits to verify the accuracy of election results.

   2. Election monitoring and oversight continue to ensure the process was conducted fairly and transparently.

   3. Legal and regulatory compliance is ensured, with all aspects of the election process complying with relevant laws and regulations.

   4. Post-election analysis and reporting involve analyzing the results of the election and preparing reports on the election process and outcomes.

10. Transition:

    1. After the election, there is often a transition period before the elected candidates take office. This can involve orientation sessions for new officeholders and planning for the handover of responsibilities. This sequence provides a comprehensive overview of the local election process in the US, from candidate nomination to post-election transition. Click the link here for a generalized list of election positions and roles and responsibilities.

11. Reporting mismanagement, irregularities, suspicious or illegal activities

    If you witness something suspicious or illegal relating to the voting process of a local election, there are several actions you can take:

    1. Report to Local Election Officials: You can report the incident to your local election officials. They are responsible for administering elections and should be able to address or investigate your concerns.

    2. Report to State Election Officials: If local officials are unresponsive or if you believe they may be involved in the wrongdoing, you can escalate your report to state election officials or the state Secretary of State's office.

    3. Report to Federal Officials: If the election involves federal offices (like President, Senator, or Representative), you can report the incident to federal officials. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has a Voting Section in its Civil Rights Division that handles violations of federal voting rights laws.

    4. Contact a Watchdog Group: There are non-governmental organizations that monitor elections and may be able to aid or further escalate the issue.

    5. Affidavit: An affidavit is a written statement of facts that is sworn to be true by the person making it, called the affiance. It is usually signed in the presence of a notary public or another authorized official, such as a judge or court clerk. An affidavit does not have a single or universal form that serves as an affidavit. Instead, the content and format of an affidavit can vary depending on the purpose, jurisdiction, and specific requirements of the situation in which it is being used. Please click the link to see how affidavits are filled out and processed.

Federal law (52 U.S.C. § 20511) makes it a crime to deprive, defraud, or attempt to deprive or defraud the residents of a State of a fair and impartially conducted election process knowingly and willfully. This includes the procurement or submission of voter registration applications or ballots known to be materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent. Violations of this law can result in fines or imprisonment for up to five years.

Additionally, under (52 U.S.C. § 10307), it's a crime to intimidate, threaten, or coerce any person for voting or attempting to vote. Violations can result in fines or imprisonment for up to five years.

Click this Link for federal voting and election laws.

FREEDOM, LIBERTY AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS!! REMEMBER YOUR ROOTS!!

Section 3. Power = Lines of Action, Lines of Influence and Lines of Impact

Scenario Title: The Citizen, Precinct, Influence and Power

In the scenario provided in the link here, we see a complex interplay of power, action, influence, and impact across three levels of government - local, state, and federal.

At the local level, elected officials such as the County Commissioner, Mayor, and Township Supervisor wield power through their control over budgets and policy decisions. Their actions, such as prioritizing affordable housing, implementing rent control, or offering tax incentives to developers, create lines of influence that affect the Municipality of Freedom, the Township of Independence, and Liberty County. These decisions, influenced by the citizens who elected them, can have a profound impact on the local community.

But the influence doesn't stop at the local level. Successful policies can catch the attention of state officials, who may adopt similar measures or allocate more funding based on the results seen at the local level. This is where we see the line of impact extending to the state level. For example, a successful affordable housing initiative at the county level could lead to a statewide affordable housing initiative.

The ripple effect continues to the federal level. State-level successes can influence national policy or legislation. In our scenario, a successful state-level affordable housing initiative could lead to federal legislation providing funding for similar initiatives nationwide. This is the line of impact at the federal level - a local action leading to state and then national impact.

Throughout this process, citizens play a crucial role. Through voting, advocacy, and community organizing, citizens like Jane, John, and Mary can influence the decision-making process at all levels of government. Their actions can create lines of influence that shape the actions of their elected officials, which in turn can create lines of impact that reach from their local community to the state and even the national stage.

Power is exercised through action, creating lines of influence that can lead to significant lines of impact across all levels of government. The actions taken at the local level can ripple outwards, influencing policy and decision-making at the state and federal levels. And at the heart of this process are the citizens, whose engagement and advocacy can drive change from the ground up.

Section 4: Plan of Action for Citizen-Led Monitoring of Local Elections

To prevent irregularities or cheating within our election process, it's imperative that we monitor it to ensure the validity of our votes. The principle of "one person, one vote," as mentioned in this trilogy, is paramount. The first step, as stated in 7b, is to secure our vote. However, to do this effectively, we need a comprehensive plan of action.

"Trust the plan," as the saying goes. I believe the true essence of this phrase lies not in the plan itself, but in the process of creating it. What follows is a detailed, step-by-step plan of action for citizen-led monitoring of our local elections. For a detailed breakdown of each step, please click the provided link. I've only included the steps in this article to conserve space and avoid overwhelming the reader. The linked content offers a detailed task-by-task guide to executing each step.

Objective: The objective of this plan is to independently monitor local elections, alleviate concerns related to election integrity, and foster transparency in the electoral process.

Step 1: Form an Independent Monitoring Committee

Step 2: Study Federal Election Laws

Step 3: Study State Election Laws

Step 4: Study Local Election Laws

Step 5: Understand the Election Process

Step 6: Study Voting Machines and Technology

Step 7: Develop a Comprehensive Monitoring Plan

Step 8: Recruit and Train Citizen Monitors

Step 9: Identify Key Areas for Monitoring

Step 10: Prepare Monitoring Tools and Materials

Step 11: Deploy Monitors on Election Day

Step 12: Document and Report Findings

Step 13: Handle Encountered Issues

Step 14: Verify and Validate Information

Step 15: Advocate for Transparency and Accountability

Step 16: Maintain Transparency and Public Awareness

Step 17: Collaborate with Election Authorities

Decisive Points:

• Ensure that the monitoring committee is prepared to handle any potential interference, intimidation, or attempts to disrupt the monitoring process by adhering to legal guidelines and maintaining impartiality.

• If any irregularities or concerns are encountered during the monitoring process, immediately document and report them to relevant authorities and legal experts for further investigation.

• The monitoring committee should be prepared to advocate for transparency and accountability by engaging with local media outlets and civil society organizations to raise awareness about their findings and promote open dialogue about election integrity.

By integrating decisive points into the plan, the citizen-led monitoring effort becomes more resilient and capable of responding effectively to any challenges or irregularities encountered during the local election monitoring process.

Summary

Local elections, the bedrock of our Republic, demand our vigilant attention and active participation. The election process, intricate and multifaceted, is a system we must comprehend in its entirety to ensure its integrity and fairness. The roles of influence and power, when held and exercised by informed citizens, can significantly shape the trajectory of our communities and nation.

A meticulously devised plan of action for citizen-led monitoring of local elections is a crucial component of this endeavor. It equips us with the tools to protect the sanctity of our electoral system, fostering an environment of transparency, accountability, and trust.

By gaining a deep understanding of these elements and their interplay, we can actively contribute to the functioning of our Republic, molding a government that truly echoes the will of its people. Our involvement transcends the realm of rights and enters the domain of responsibilities - responsibilities we owe to ourselves, our fellow citizens, and the generations yet to come.

In the grand tapestry of our nation's history, each thread of citizen involvement strengthens the fabric of our Republic. Let us weave our threads with care, fortifying our nation and preserving the principles upon which it was founded.

Written by SpartanAltsobaPatriot, 17th SOG

Another awesome article by Biernutz_71

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