What is the role of the people in the Texas political system? Key areas to address include: The role of public opinion, interest groups, and political parties; The state and local election process; Rights and responsibilities of citizens; and Key issues and policies and political culture. Students will write a research/argumentative essay, 500-750 words in length, from the topic below ***Be sure to include a strong thesis statement (debatable claim) as a part of your introduction paragraph. Please see thesis statement information below. ***Be sure to write in the 3rd person.