Do they really care?

Over the last year I have become interested in a few different topics which have led to a slightly more political stance on my part. For example I care very much about food safety and the rights of farmer’s in our country. It would be very sad if our food chain became owned entirely by big business. Another thing I care about is educational choice. We should be able to send our children to the school of our choosing and direct a portion of our tax dollars to these alternative educational situations. As part of this political stance I have sent a few emails to political leaders. In response I have gotten a general reply that my email was received. You have to wonder if any of these emails actually have an impact. My gut tells me that it is merely a means for people to feel like they have had their say. My bet is that the common man really had very little influence on any of the political decisions that take place in government. When we elect representatives is likely the only time our voice is heard.