Video: Political scientist Marques Zárate on why voting matters, particularly in local races

PROVIDENCE, R.I. [Brown University] - As Election Day arrives amid the buzz of a hotly contested presidential race, some voters may be keenly aware of the major-party candidates for commander in chief but less familiar with state ballot questions or the contenders for school committee or town council in their local communities.

Brown University Assistant Professor of Political Science Marques Zárate, whose research focuses on factors that shape political attitudes and behaviors in the United States, said the Nov. 5 elections present a key opportunity for voters to advance civic engagement and effect change on the local level.

"We know that voter turnout during presidential election years tends to be much higher compared to other elections," Zárate said. "Local elections tend to be some of the most important… particularly because they're actually forming the rules that govern your day-to-day interactions. For example, how much money is going to go to schools."

In a brief video interview, Zárate shared insights on why voting matters and reflected on the nearly 250-year history of voting in the U.S.

"Knowing how hard people fought in order to give us these rights and to have our voice heard… is one of the beautiful parts about democracy," Zárate said, "where if you really want something to change, you can help make that change happen."