Citizen participation is at the cornerstone of an effective and representative government. Take some time to consider the issue and get involved.

There are two parts to this forum. You need to complete both for full credit.

Part 1: Chapter 10 of the Denhardts’ textbook The New Public Service: Serving, not Steering covers citizen engagement and New Public Service. The text gives examples
of a wide variety of approaches to enhanced citizen participation. They conclude with practical recommendations. Another perspective of citizen involvement is offered
by Dr Stephen Schwalbe in the 2016 article "Why Aren’t Citizens More Interested in Local Politics?" Please read both publications and answer the following
questions.

How realistic is New Public Service?

Is citizen engagement an issue to which we should be paying attention?

What variables affect the level of citizen involvement in local politics?

What might increase our national level of interest and participation?

What would motivate you to become more active?

Part 2: Get out and do it! Apply what you have learned and engage! Kraft and Furlong wrote on page 156 that "students should arrange visits to government and
other offices to obtain information and interview policy actors."

A good starting point may a topic from this class that piqued your interest (think gun violence in schools, military retirement). Write your representatives, join a
PAC, or share your thoughts with member of your local or state government. Then, report back to the class on what you have done!