The Savage Republican

But in our discussion, she raised any interesting question – What should any of us do after Election Day? What about the following week or month? Since this column is scheduled to run the Saturday after election, but deadline requires it to be submitted before the election – hopefully by the time you read this, we will know who won most, if not all, of the races.

Is our work done as citizens once we vote? Can we ignore politics and politicians until the next scandal hits the newspapers or the next wave of TV ad begins? The answer is "no."

After the election is the time to become even more involved in the true grassroots political efforts. Legislatures will begin to convene again and both state and federal congressional members will be listening to their constituents to find out their concerns.

Too often they only hear from activist groups or those with complaints. If you voted for someone because of their position on an issue, send them a quick note congratulating them on their victory and remind them that you will be watching to see if they follow through.

I also suggest you become involved with local political organizations. Too often, the only contact people have with their own party is a phone call reminding them to vote or maybe being involved in the final weeks of the election. These local political organizations are working year-round, whether it is an election year or not. There is more to politics than just state and federal elections. There are also local elections, school bonding issues and city referendums. They also serve as a vital sounding board to inform both candidates and legislators about the concerns and feelings of the local communities.

Many important pieces of legislation began as a suggestion from a local meeting. An important fact or debate point you share with your representative just might be that crucial piece that is needed to make that bill a law.

In addition to the legislative impact, there is an educational and social element to local political groups. I, myself, have learned more about constitutional history during my political involvement than I ever learned in school. How often do you get a chance to discuss the purpose of the Electoral College with a congressman, college professor, lawyer, author and a war hero? More than once is my answer. I have met people that I might not have encountered in my "normal" life and what I have learned from them continues to amaze me. The two great discussion taboos of dinner parties – religion and politics – are center stage at a gathering. It is a chance to listen, to learn, to discuss and to grow as a citizen. And the social aspects can be fun, too. They don't call them political "parties" for nothing.

So, now the election is over and the results are in (I hope), but your chance to become involved has just begun. Please become an active citizen. Become involved with your local organization and let government of the people, by the people and for the people continue to flourish in this nation.

For more local Republican events and information, go to www.savagerepublican.com.

For information on local DFL events go to www.scottcountydfl.com.

(Robert Thibodeaux is one of about a dozen people in the Savage community who write for Community Voices. This column features a different writer each week and is one of several opinion and commentary pieces appearing regularly in this newspaper.)