University of Central Florida (UCF) POS2041 American National Government Practice Exam 2

The responsibility for electing Senators in the United States lies with the citizens of each state through popular vote. This system was established by the 17th Amendment to the Constitution, which was ratified in 1913. Prior to this amendment, Senators were selected by state legislatures, which led to concerns about corruption and a lack of direct representation for the electorate.

The shift to popular elections for Senators meant that citizens now have a direct voice in choosing their representatives in the Senate. This democratic process ensures that Senators are accountable to the voters in their states. Each state holds elections every six years for its Senators, allowing the electorate to express their preferences on legislative matters and policy issues.

This choice empowers citizens and reinforces the fundamental democratic principle that government should be by the people and for the people, as Senators make important decisions on national legislation, representation, and various issues impacting their states and the nation as a whole.