Please compare and contrast the power of the ordinary citizen in your discussion of a direct democracy versus a democratic republic.  Be sure to include a discussion of the initiative and recall process.

Here are some web sites that may be of interest to you regarding ballot initiatives and recall.

http://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/ballot-measures/qualified-ballot-measures.htm

http://voterguide.sos.ca.gov/propositions/

http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/Gun-groups-target-California-lawmakers-for-recall-4923197.php

http://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/ballot-measures/how-to-qualify-an-initiative.htm