Democracy is not only a significant part of my belief its survival is also mission of my life.

In the very initial stages of my life, the value of Democracy had dawned upon me. Perhaps, that was due to the reason at that time I belonged to a nation who has escaped the iron clutches of 3 tyrants since its inception and was struggling to wriggle through the snares of the fourth.

So, it was not surprising that I grew up idolizing those national leaders who sacrificed everything to flourish democracy in this country. Along with my national heroes, many American leaders including Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther king were the source of my passionate inspiration.

In 2015, when I got the opportunity to visit USA for State department funded legislative fellowship program, my excitement knew no bounds. I was about to get exposed to political and democratic system of America and the elections which were the foundation of American democratic system.

It was May 2015, We had a wonderful reception when we reached US for the Legislative Fellowship Program funded by US State Department. We were welcomed by world learning team when we reached Washington. With Vlad and Amanda, a wonderful journey began that initiated with the visits around the beautiful city of Washington.?The walks around Capitol Hill and national monument and the experience of observing the senate proceeding were not only entertaining but also insightful. The sessions regarding the American constitution and federal system taught me those lessons which I find very relevant and applicable to my life even in my own country.

The next step in my journey was Columbus Ohio, a state which is famous, or I should say notorious, for being so politically active. Perhaps that’s the reason that this state has produced the largest number of American presidents. As a matter of fact, there is hardly any example of any President who has not won Ohio. And if that introduction is not enough, let me tell that Ohio reserves the honor of providing the world with light and flight as this state is the proud birthplace for Thomas Edison and Wright Brothers as well.

In the light of about mentioned facts, Ohio was the hub of American politics and election and had a lot to offer to a novice like me. I take pride in the fact that I was placed in Ohio House of Representative where republicans were in majority. Besides attending joint sessions, I missed no chance of being a part of committee hearings.?It was a pleasant surprise for me that American representatives are answerable to each and everything to their masses. No politician or leader can escape the system of transparent accountability. How I wish to see such systems in practice in Pakistan too!

During the visit to the Board of Elections in Franklin county, the Ohio Election Process was further explained to me. The representatives of both the democrats and the republicans, get together to formulate the election policy. To know about electronic voting system, online voting and redistricting reforms was a thrilling experience for me.??The need for electronic voting system, online voting and redistricting reforms has become indispensible in Pakistan as well.?Recently, the government in Pakistan has begun the election reforms, under 22nd constitutional amendment, which is very positive step. The need of the hour is to formulate a fair system, like the one in America, that will eradicate any chance of rigging, removing all the doubts of opposition making the election system completely transparent.

My thoughts and view about American elections will not be complete without mentioning Senator Frank Larose who is an active state leader whose efforts for efficient and fair elections are commendable. Furthermore, my day as a shadow member with Senator Kevin bacon allowed me to have an insider’s view of the American legislative system. I was honored as a state guest by speaker cliff Rosenberger in 131st general assembly joint session. What a proud moment for Pakistan and I when all the members welcomed our delegation by thumping the desks! Needless to say that this increased my respect for America and democracy even more.

Those four weeks spent in Ohio were one of the best of my life. Each day was more fulfilling and enriching then the previous one. The love, respect, space and the ideas I received were invaluable and was something I never imagined before. Honestly, I don't have words to express my gratitude for the people of Ohio, Legislators, policy makers, International visitor council & hundreds of professionals I met and of course my lovely host families. They inspired me to dedicate my life for Democracy & Freedom.

I was lucky that I stayed with wonderful American families who guided me on every step of my stay there. I am glad that the friendships I made there with Kim, Esther, Jim, Laura, Frank and Janette are still part of my life today. I stay connected to them and keep taking their view about who will they vote for in this year’s presidential elections???

Sardar Sami Ullah Abbasi?