After the election CVF will archive the site, creating an important information resource for citizens, journalists and academics. Voters who want to hold their elected officials accountable will have the opportunity to check that official's platform papers and see if campaign promises were kept. Academics and journalists researching California elections will have immediate access to election results and the text of ballot measures. A new voter will have the chance to read a political party's platform before registering to vote. A tool for democratic renewal In the coming years, the Internet may become as universal in American households as television is today.
Studies show that the Internet is already cutting into television viewership.
The Pew Research Center for the People and the Press recently found that T. V. viewership among people who use online computer services declined by nine percent between June 1995 and April 1996. The public's definition of the Internet and its purpose is just taking shape now. By producing nonpartisan online voter guides, CVF helps define the Internet as a tool of democratic renewal that can be used to improve American democracy and promote a healthier public life. The Internet may also help reduce the financial barriers to running for public office by providing candidates with the opportunity to reach voters in a widespread and effective way without having to pay for broadcast advertising or direct mail, which currently drives up the cost of campaigning. Audience 14.4 million Californians are registered to vote, comprising one-tenth of the nation's voters.