What is the purpose of the Seventeenth Amendment?

The Seventeenth Amendment, ratified in 1913, directly relates to promoting democratic participation by establishing the direct election of United States senators by the voters of each state. Prior to this amendment, senators were selected by state legislatures, which often led to political corruption and a disconnect between senators and the citizens they represented. By allowing the electorate to choose their senators directly, the amendment aimed to make the Senate more accountable and responsive to the public, thus enhancing the democratic process. This shift empowered citizens to have a more direct say in their government and aimed to reduce instances of corruption associated with legislative appointments.