Chapter 10

Question 1

Referendum

Answer 1

A state level method of director legislation that gives voters a chance to approve or disapprove proposed legislation or a proposed constitutional amendment

Question 2

Initiative petition

Answer 2

The process permitted in some states whereby voters may put proposed changes in the state constitution to vote if sufficient signatures are obtained on petitions calling for such referendum

Question 3

Legitimacy

Answer 3

The characterization of elections by political scientists meaning that they are almost universally excepted as a fair and free method of selecting political leaders

Question 4

Political efficacy

Answer 4

The belief that one’s political participation really matters. That one’s vote can actually make a difference

Question 5

Civic duty

Answer 5

The belief that in order to support democratic government, a citizen should always vote

Question 6

Voter registration

Answer 6

A system adopted by the states that requires voters to register well in advance of Election Day

Question 7

Motor voter act

Answer 7

Passed in 1993, this act went into effect for the 1996 election. It requires states to permit people to register to vote the same day as they apply for their drivers license

Question 8

Mandate theory of elections

Answer 8

The idea that the winning candidate has a mandate from the people to carry out his or her platforms and politics

Question 9

Policy voting

Answer 9

Elect Torel choices that are made on the basis of the voters policy preference and on the basis of where candidates stand on policy issues

Question 10

Electoral college

Answer 10

A unique American institution, created by the constitution, providing for the selection of the president by electors chosen by state parties

Question 11

Retrospective voting

Answer 11

A theory of voting in which voters essentially ask the simple question “what have you done for me lately “