Elections are a group decision-making process that began in the 17th century where citizens in democratic countries choose people to hold public office through voting. Voters must be 18 years or older, citizens, and know how to vote. Candidates campaign and are nominated, then voters registered in that area go to polling places on election day and follow instructions to cast ballots that are counted to determine the winner with the most votes. While elections allow citizen participation and opportunities for leadership, some criticize that some votes do not matter or feel unfair.