About Presidential Elections for Kids
The presidential election process gives citizens the chance to decide who will lead their country. Even if you're not old enough to vote, it's important that you understand the process. One day, it'll be up to you vote for the next president. Perhaps you even have dreams of occupying the White House yourself.
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Qualifications of Presidents
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To serve in office, a candidate must be 35 years or older and a U.S.-born citizen who has lived in the country for at least 14 years. A president can run for re-election after his four-year term is over; however, a person cannot serve as president for more than two terms.
Party Candidates
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Before the presidential election begins, the Democratic and Republican parties, the two major political parties in the United States, choose their presidential nominees. At national conventions, the delegates declare the official candidates. For example, during the 2008 primary elections, the Democratic Party chose Barack Obama as its candidate. It is possible to run for president even without a political party's support. Independent candidates rally for signatures to support their nominations while using loans and fundraisers to keep their campaign moving.
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Debates and Ads
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The candidates travel around the country, giving speeches that explain their positions and address important issues. Their supporters may also launch ad campaigns, some of which point out the flaws in the views of opposing candidates. During televised debates, the candidates talk about the major issues concerning Americans. The first broadcast debate was in 1960, during the race between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon.
Election Day
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On Election Day, voters go the polls and submit their ballots. These ballots count toward your state's electoral votes, which ultimately decide who will be the next president. The number of electoral votes each state possesses depends on the population of the state. For example, California has more electoral votes than North Dakota because California has a greater population, which translates into a greater number of state representatives and senators. A candidate needs at least 270 electoral votes to win.
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References
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