What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?

Voting and running for office are fundamental ways for Americans to engage in their democracy. Voting empowers citizens to make decisions about their government by electing representatives who align with their values and priorities. This participation ensures that the voices of the electorate are heard in the decision-making process. Running for office takes this involvement a step further, allowing individuals to actively shape policies and legislation by seeking to hold positions of power and influence. Together, these actions contribute to a vibrant democratic system where public participation is essential for representation and accountability in government.

The other options, while important in various contexts, do not directly reflect participation in the democratic process. Joining a union may improve workers' rights, and attending school contributes to personal development and civic knowledge, but they are not forms of direct participation in the democratic system. Traveling abroad and paying taxes are necessary for citizenship and national responsibilities, but they do not involve active participation in governance. Writing books and creating art contribute to cultural expression and societal discourse, yet they do not constitute direct participation in democracy in the same manner that voting and running for office do.