In images: New England’s ‘Town Meeting’ tradition gives people a direct role in local democracy

A resident walks to the town hall to attend the annual Town Meeting in Elmore, Vt., Tuesday, March 5, 2024. The tradition is under threat, with many people feeling they don’t have the time or ability to attend. Many towns in Vermont have elected to move to a secret ballot system similar to the system used in national elections. (AP Photo/David Goldman)