Key Process of Democracy

Democratic governance is as much concerned with process as it is with outcomes, and democratic processes such as fair elections contribute to democratic governance. Yet, free and open elections alone are not enough to guarantee democratic governance. There are more specific processes at work that help support democratic governance and policy making on a day-to-day basis. In addition, there are principles such as equal justice under the law and due process that are considered to be emblems of democratic governance. Along with other democratic principles, they foster the democratic and participatory process. A local citizen speaking before the city planning commission and a highly paid corporate lobbyist seeking to influence federal legislation each play an integral role in the democratic process. Their engagement in the democratic process, no matter how large or small, promotes democratic governance and contributes to the everyday workings of democratic government.