Voters who are upset with the election results must remember the presidency is only one function of government, and individual efforts can make a difference on other levels.

The election results are in and Barack Obama is the president for four more years. Those who have taken to social media outlets to complain are not helping to make strides or accomplish goals for our nation.

But voters who are unhappy with the results can still work toward change, starting on the local level. People can volunteer for local group branches, write letters to politicians or donate to groups that support similar causes. Local representatives can easily be contacted. By better informing themselves, people can spread messages to others.

At the national level, the American government has checks and balances. The president does not have ultimate control, so voters who might not agree with the president’s views should not be discouraged about the next four years.

The parties in control of the Senate and House of Representatives remain virtually unchanged after this election, which means partisanship will likely remain a problem. But Congress members are supposed to represent the views, needs and thoughts of their constituents. The division and lack of bipartisanship of the American people is manifested in government, and people need to come together in order to close the gap between sides.

Bipartisanship can start on a local level. Voters must try to inform themselves about all sides of an issue, understand other people’s beliefs and make decisions that can satisfy all parties. In order for the nation to ever make real, substantial progress, its people need to do the same and work together.