The election is over and Donald Trump was a week ago sworn in as the 47th president of the United States.

That’s not the end.

Democracy depends on an engaged and involved populace, and we urge every Northeast Michigander to stay involved.

If you supported Trump, continue to hold him accountable for keeping the promises he made. If you like those promises, work to help him accomplish his goals by volunteering, writing to your congressional representatives, and continuing to vote.

If you do not support Trump, get involved with causes that oppose him, volunteer for efforts to slow his initiatives, vote, and write to your congressional representatives to let them know not every American wants what Trump wants.

And, most importantly, stay engaged with local causes, where democracy has the greatest impact and your work can yield quicker and more impactful results. Know your candidates for city hall and county courthouses, vote for the ones you support, attend council and commission meetings, and let your representatives know how you feel. They’ll listen even more than Trump or any member of Congress.

Stay engaged, Northeast Michigan. Don’t just wait for the next presidential election.

America needs you all the time, not just every four years.