1. Political Socialization What influences people to think the way they do politically?

2. Political Socialization Family Media Peers Education Religion Faith Race Gender Age Geography

3. Voter Qualifications What qualifications do you need to vote?

4. You must be a citizen of the United States You must be 18 years old (but each state can make their own rules) In Colorado, must have resided in Colorado 22 days immediately before the election You must register to vote (In Colorado, 29 days before an election) Qualifications You also can’t be serving a sentence of confinement, detention, or parole for a felony conviction

5. BE INFORMED Be an “independent voter.” Don’t just vote all Republican or all Democratic. Keep an open mind. Independent Voter ≠ “Undecided” Voter Most Important Qualifications