Elections Flashcards
Describe the main types of elections in the U.S.
- Presidential Elections – Indirectly select the president every four years. 2. Congressional Elections – Directly elect members of the House and Senate. 3. Primaries & Caucuses – Select party candidates for presidential, congressional, and state elections. 4. Direct Democracy Mechanisms – Includes ballot initiatives, referendums, and recall elections.
Explain when presidential elections occur in the U.S. and the process if a president leaves office mid-term.
Presidential elections occur every four years in November, with the winner inaugurated in January. If a president resigns or dies mid-term, the vice president steps in to complete the term without a new election.
Define midterm elections in the context of the U.S. electoral system.
Midterms occur every two years, in which the entire House of Representatives and one-third of the Senate are up for election. They take place between presidential elections.
How do states influence the timing of elections in the U.S. electoral system?
Individual states decide the timing of their elections, usually occurring once or twice a year.
What federal rules govern state elections in the U.S.?
Federal rules include that all polling stations must be accessible to people with disabilities, and no racial or gender-based voting restrictions are allowed.
Describe the role of states in the U.S. electoral system.
States have discretion in determining the timing of their elections and must adhere to federal rules regarding accessibility and non-discrimination in voting.
Describe the role of states in controlling voter ID laws.
States have the authority to determine voter ID laws, how primaries are organized, and the requirements for voter registration.
Explain the voter registration system in North Dakota.
North Dakota does not have a formal voter registration system, but voters are still required to show ID to vote.
Define ballot access laws and their impact on third-party candidates.
Ballot access laws vary by state, with some states imposing stricter regulations that can limit the ability of third-party candidates to appear on the ballot.
How did the Green Party candidate Howie Hawkins fare in the 2020 elections regarding ballot access?
In 2020, Howie Hawkins, the Green Party candidate, was not on the ballot in 21 states and was only a write-in candidate in 17 states.
What type of electoral system is predominantly used in U.S. elections?
Nearly all U.S. elections utilize a majoritarian electoral system, although there are some exceptions due to state-level variations.
Describe the Senate election process in Georgia.
Georgia employs a top-two runoff system; if no candidate receives over 50% of the vote, the top two candidates compete in a runoff election.
Explain the non-partisan blanket primary system used in California.
California uses a non-partisan blanket primary system where the top two candidates, regardless of their party affiliation, advance to the final election.
What is ranked-choice voting and which state has implemented it since 2018?
Ranked-choice voting allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference, and it has been used in Maine for congressional and local elections since 2018.
How is the U.S. president elected?
The U.S. elects its president through an indirect system known as the Electoral College (EC).
Describe how Electoral College Votes (ECVs) are allocated to each state.
Each state plus Washington D.C. receives ECVs equal to its number of congressional representatives, with a minimum of 3 ECVs per state.
Explain the process of recalculating ECV allocations.
ECV allocations are recalculated every 10 years after the national census.
Identify the state with the highest number of Electoral College Votes.
California has the most Electoral College Votes, totaling 54.
Discuss the significance of the Electoral College for smaller states.
The Electoral College protects smaller states from being overlooked in national campaigns.
How does the U.S. electoral system promote political participation?
The large number of elections provides voters with many opportunities to engage in the political process.
Define the majoritarian system in the context of the U.S. electoral system.
The majoritarian system ensures clear results and often leads to single-party control in legislatures.
Explain the role of primaries and caucuses in the electoral process.
Primaries and caucuses allow voters to have a significant role in selecting party candidates.
What is a potential consequence of frequent elections in the U.S. electoral system?
Frequent elections can lead to voter fatigue, apathy, and cynicism among the electorate.
Describe the challenge posed by two-party dominance in the U.S. electoral system.
The two-party dominance makes it difficult for third parties or independents to gain traction in elections.
How did the 2010 census affect ECV allocations in Texas and Ohio/New York?
After the 2010 census, Texas gained 4 ECVs, while Ohio and New York each lost 2 ECVs.
Describe the concept of congressional deadlock.
Congressional deadlock refers to a situation where divided government leads to legislative gridlock, making it difficult for Congress to pass laws.
Explain how state-level manipulation affects voting laws.
State-level manipulation allows states to impose restrictive voting laws, which can impact voter access and participation.
How does excessive campaigning influence party divisions?
Excessive campaigning, characterized by long election cycles, can deepen divisions between political parties, making collaboration more challenging.
Define the electoral college distortion and its impact on presidential elections.
Electoral college distortion occurs when smaller states are over-represented in presidential elections, affecting the overall fairness of the electoral process.
Explain the practice of gerrymandering.
Gerrymandering is the manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor a particular political party, often through tactics like cracking and packing.
Describe the tactic of cracking in gerrymandering.
Cracking is a gerrymandering tactic that involves splitting opposition voters across multiple districts to weaken their overall influence.
What is packing in the context of gerrymandering?
Packing is a gerrymandering strategy that concentrates opposition voters into a single district to limit their impact in other districts.
Provide examples of gerrymandering in specific districts.
Examples include Ohio’s 11th District and Maryland’s 7th District, both criticized for partisan gerrymandering.
How did partisan gerrymandering affect Maryland’s congressional seats?
In Maryland, Democrats won 7 out of 8 congressional seats despite receiving only 63% of the vote in 2024, illustrating the effects of partisan gerrymandering.
Discuss the implications of racial gerrymandering in Alabama’s districts.
Alabama’s 7th District, which is 55% Black, and Alabama’s 3rd District, which is 66% White, demonstrate racial gerrymandering that reinforces political divisions.
Describe the frequency of campaigning in American elections.
Candidates and parties are almost constantly in a state of campaigning, with presidential election campaigns beginning immediately after midterms. This includes ‘invisible primaries’ and a focus on policies that impact re-election prospects.
Explain the significance of the economic situation in American campaigns.
The economic situation is seen as crucial to a candidate’s re-election chances, influencing their campaign strategies and public messaging.
Define individuality in the context of American political campaigns.
Individuality refers to the focus on the individual candidate rather than party allegiance, with candidates responsible for creating their own campaign teams and securing nomination signatures and funds.
How do state and national parties contribute to individual campaigns in the U.S.?
State and national parties play important roles by channeling finance, directing donors, and helping secure endorsements for individual candidates.
Discuss the impact of personal branding in American political campaigns.
Personal branding can significantly influence a candidate’s success, as seen in Trump’s 2016 campaign, where his slogans and self-promotion as a successful businessperson resonated with voters.
Explain the role of military service in congressional and state election ads.
Many election ads emphasize candidates’ military service as a key quality, highlighting themes of duty and patriotism to appeal to voters.
What strategies do candidates use to overcome a lack of political experience in American elections?
Candidates can leverage personal branding, campaign skills, and financial resources to gain visibility and support, as demonstrated by Trump’s rise despite lacking prior elected office experience.
Describe the importance of campaign slogans in American elections.
Campaign slogans, such as ‘Build that wall’ and ‘Make America Great Again’, serve to create a personal connection with voters and encapsulate the candidate’s message.
How does the concept of individualism manifest in American political campaigns?
Individualism manifests in campaigns through a focus on the candidate’s personal qualities and achievements, often overshadowing party affiliation.
Discuss the role of endorsements in American political campaigns.
Endorsements from influential figures or organizations can significantly enhance a candidate’s credibility and appeal, often facilitated by state and national party support.
Describe the strategy used by Joni Ernst in her 2014 campaign ad.
Joni Ernst’s 2014 campaign ad ‘Squeal’ highlighted her experience by boasting about her background in farming, specifically castrating hogs, to suggest she would know how to ‘cut pork’ in Washington, D.C.
Explain the significance of voter turnout in political campaigns.
Voter turnout is crucial in political campaigns as it determines the number of supporters who actually cast their votes, influencing election outcomes. Candidates often focus on mobilizing specific demographic groups to ensure they turn out to vote.
Define the term ‘GOTV’ in the context of elections.
‘GOTV’ stands for ‘Get Out The Vote,’ a strategy used by political campaigns to encourage and facilitate voter participation among their supporters.
How did the Republican Party attempt to mobilize white conservative evangelicals in 2004?
In 2004, the Republican Party ran a national campaign promoting state ballot measures to ban same-sex marriage, aiming to incentivize white conservative evangelicals to vote and support George W. Bush’s re-election.
Discuss the implications of tighter voter ID laws in Republican-controlled states.
Tighter voter ID laws in Republican-controlled states can suppress voter turnout among certain groups, particularly younger voters and lower-paid workers, who may find it more difficult to meet ID requirements, thus impacting their likelihood to vote Republican.
Explain the concept of ‘Get Rid of the Vote’ in political campaigns.
‘Get Rid of the Vote’ refers to strategies employed by some campaigns to discourage or suppress voter turnout among specific demographic groups that are less likely to support their candidates.
What was the outcome of Indiana’s 2017 law regarding voter purging?
Indiana’s 2017 law allowing the state to purge voters from rolls without notification was overturned by courts, as it was deemed to violate the National Voter Registration Act of 1993.
Describe the impact of allegations of voter fraud following the 2020 election.
Allegations of voter fraud following the 2020 election were used to justify the implementation of stricter voter purging laws, which aimed to remove voters from registration lists.
Identify the demographic groups that some Republican campaigns may seek to suppress.
Some Republican campaigns may seek to suppress voter turnout among African Americans and younger voters, as these groups tend to overwhelmingly support Democratic candidates.
Discuss the role of independent voters in elections.
Although many Americans identify as independents, they often lean towards one party, making them a target for campaigns that aim to persuade them to vote for their candidate.
Describe the vote purging trend in Georgia between 2018 and 2022.
Approximately 5 million voters purged in Georgia during this period, with 70% of those registrations being from black individuals.
Explain the significance of swing states in US national elections.
Swing states are crucial in US national elections because most campaigning focuses on a small number of these states, leading to more resources being allocated there compared to states like California.
How does the electoral system affect campaign strategies in presidential elections?
The state-based electoral system leads to a concentration of campaign efforts and resources in swing states, where candidates spend more time and money compared to non-competitive states.
Define the term ‘battleground states’ in the context of elections.
Battleground states, or swing states, are those where both major political parties have similar levels of support among voters, making them critical for candidates to win in order to secure electoral votes.
Explain the importance of early primary states in the election process.
Early primary states like Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina are significant because victories there can generate momentum for candidates, influencing their success in subsequent primaries.
What impact does campaign momentum have on candidates during primaries?
Campaign momentum can lead to increased funding and endorsements for successful candidates, while also causing less competitive candidates to withdraw from the race.
Describe the financial landscape of the 2020 elections in the US.
The total cost of the 2020 elections was around $14 billion, with over $7 billion spent on Senate and House races.
How did Bernie Sanders’ fundraising in February 2020 reflect public support?
Bernie Sanders raised $46 million in February 2020 from 2.2 million separate donations, indicating significant grassroots support from ordinary Americans.
Discuss the relationship between campaign spending and election outcomes.
While higher spending can enhance a campaign’s visibility, it does not guarantee electoral success, as evidenced by Clinton and Harris outspending Trump yet not winning.
What challenges do candidates face due to high campaign spending in the US?
Candidates often struggle with the lack of funds to run effective nationwide campaigns, which is exacerbated by the vast size of the country and the absence of effective laws to regulate campaign spending.
Explain the concept of ‘midterm blues’ in US elections.
Midterm blues refer to the challenges and lower voter turnout that often occur during midterm elections, which take place every four years midway through a president’s term.
Describe the impact of midterm elections on a president’s party control.
Midterm elections often result in the president’s party losing control of Congress, making it more challenging to pass legislation. For example, Obama lost control of the House in 2010 and the Senate in 2014, which rendered him a ‘lame duck’ president for the remainder of his term.
Explain the significance of the 2018 midterm elections for the Democratic Party.
The 2018 midterm elections were significant for the Democratic Party as they gained control of the House of Representatives, which allowed them to launch impeachment proceedings and conduct investigations into various aspects of Trump’s administration.
How do midterm elections reflect public confidence in a president’s performance?
Midterm elections serve as important indicators of the public’s confidence in a president’s performance, often leading to the president’s party losing ground.
Define the term ‘lame duck’ president.
A ‘lame duck’ president refers to a president who has lost control of Congress and is unable to effectively pass legislation, often occurring after midterm elections.
Do most presidents keep their dramatic policy promises made during elections?
Nearly all presidents make dramatic policy promises to secure election, but they often cannot keep these promises, as seen with Trump’s attempt to repeal Obamacare.
Explain the role of incumbency in Senate elections.
Senate elections demonstrate the importance of personality and incumbency over party affiliation, as evidenced by West Virginia re-electing Democrat senator Manchin despite being a pro-Trump state.
What was the voter turnout in the 2018 midterms compared to 2014?
Voter turnout in the 2018 midterms was 49%, compared to 37% in 2014, indicating that Democrats were effective at mobilizing voters.
Describe the investigation involving Elaine Chao in September 2019.
In September 2019, the House Oversight and Reform Committee investigated transport secretary Elaine Chao for alleged abuse of office for personal family gain, highlighting the scrutiny faced by members of the Trump administration.
How did the 2018 midterms affect the Republican Party’s control in Congress?
In the 2018 midterms, the Republican Party lost control of the House of Representatives, which impacted their legislative power and ability to support Trump’s agenda.
What percentage of voters viewed the 2018 midterm vote as a vote against Trump?
One poll indicated that 34% of voters nationwide viewed their midterm vote as a vote against Trump.
Discuss the implications of high re-election rates for House representatives.
High re-election rates for House representatives, projected at 96.6% in 2024, suggest a lack of turnover and the entrenchment of long-time veterans in Congress.
Describe the primary purpose of presidential primaries and caucuses.
The primary purpose is to select delegates pledged to vote for a candidate at the national nominating convention and to select party candidates for state and congressional elections.
Explain the emergence of primary elections in the early 20th century.
Primary elections emerged from the Progressive Era, aiming to break away from ‘smoke-filled rooms’ where candidates were selected behind closed doors, but became widespread and influential only in the early 1970s.
How did the 1960 West Virginia Democratic primary influence John F. Kennedy’s campaign?
Kennedy’s victory in a largely Protestant state demonstrated that a Catholic candidate could win, which helped pave the way for his successful presidential campaign.
Assess the current prevalence of caucuses in the United States.
Caucuses have been diminishing in use, with only three states retaining them for the Democratic presidential candidate selection by 2020.
Do incumbent presidents typically face serious primary opposition when seeking re-election?
Rarely, as seen with Trump in 2020, Obama in 2012, and Biden in 2024 before the first presidential debate.
What is the typical voter turnout for primaries, and who usually participates?
Turnout is often low, primarily consisting of party core supporters, which requires candidates to appeal to ideologically hardened voters.
How can the nomination process be characterized as negative and personal?
Candidates often face accusations from rivals about being out of touch, too old, too moderate, or not conservative/liberal enough, with examples like Trump using unflattering labels during the 2016 Republican primaries.
Define closed primaries and provide examples.
Closed primaries are those in which only voters pre-registered to a party can participate in that party’s primary, such as in Oregon and New York.
What are open primaries?
Open primaries allow any registered voter to participate in any party’s primary election, regardless of their own party affiliation.
Describe open primaries.
In open primaries, all registered voters can participate in any party’s primary but can vote in only one.
Define semi-open/semi-closed primaries.
Semi-open/semi-closed primaries allow pre-registered party voters to vote only in their party’s primary, while independent voters can choose which primary to vote in on polling day.
Explain how federalism influences the primary system.
The variety of primary and caucus rules across states reflects the decentralized nature of U.S. federalism.
How do states gain influence in the election cycle through primaries?
States move their primaries earlier in the election cycle, a strategy known as frontloading, to gain more influence over the outcome.
What is Super Tuesday?
Super Tuesday is a day in March when multiple states hold primaries; in 2020, it occurred on March 3, with 14 states holding Democratic primaries.
Describe the role of superdelegates in the Democratic Party.
Superdelegates are senior party officials, including former presidents, who automatically attend the national convention and can vote for a candidate, making up about 16% of the total delegate count in 2020.
Explain the main dynamics of the 2020 Democratic primaries.
The 2020 Democratic primaries initially had no clear front-runner among 29 candidates, eventually becoming a contest between progressive Bernie Sanders and moderate Joe Biden, who won after endorsements from Buttigieg and Harris.
What occurred during the 2020 Iowa Democratic caucus?
The 2020 Iowa Democratic caucus was a fiasco due to a malfunctioning app used to report results, leading to delayed official certification and the resignation of the Iowa Democratic Party chair.
What is an advantage of the primary/caucus system?
The primary/caucus system enhances political participation by allowing ordinary voters to select their party’s candidate.
Describe the role of non-traditional candidates in the political landscape.
Non-traditional candidates, such as Trump, can emerge as political outsiders, challenging established norms and potentially reshaping the political landscape.
Explain the process of momentum building for lesser-known candidates.
Lesser-known candidates can gain name recognition over time through campaigning, media exposure, and public engagement, which helps them build momentum in the electoral process.
Define democratic legitimacy in the context of candidate selection.
Democratic legitimacy refers to the process of selecting candidates through public participation rather than solely by party elites, making the selection more representative of the electorate.
How does candidate vetting occur in the primary system?
Candidate vetting tests candidates’ fundraising ability, media presence, and policy knowledge, ensuring that they are prepared for the electoral process.
Discuss the advantages of a staggered primary system.
A staggered primary system allows for broad participation across many states, giving voters in different regions a chance to engage in the electoral process.
Explain the benefits of caucuses in the electoral process.
Caucuses encourage voter engagement and facilitate discussions about candidates’ strengths and weaknesses, fostering a more informed electorate.
Identify a disadvantage of focusing on candidates rather than policies in primaries.
Focusing on candidates rather than policies can lead to increased party divisions and a lack of substantive policy discussions.
What challenges do political outsiders face in the primary system?
Political outsiders may lack experience, particularly in Washington, which can leave them ill-prepared for the complexities of governance.
How did public confidence in the primary system change by 2016?
By 2016, only 35% of voters believed that primaries produced the best-qualified candidates, indicating low public confidence in the system.
Describe the implications of an expensive and lengthy primary process.
An expensive and lengthy primary process can lead to voter fatigue and significant campaign costs, potentially discouraging participation.
Explain the influence of early states like Iowa and New Hampshire in the primary system.
Early states like Iowa and New Hampshire have disproportionate power in influencing the outcomes of primaries due to their early voting schedules.
Discuss the drawbacks of caucuses in modern elections.
Caucuses are often seen as outdated because they require significant time commitments, lack secrecy, and can be difficult to manage.
What is the National Primary Day proposal?
The National Primary Day proposal suggests that all states vote on the same day, which could eliminate state-by-state influence but may disadvantage candidates from smaller states.
Describe the concept of regional primaries.
Regional primaries would involve dividing the country into four regions that vote sequentially, aiming to streamline the primary process and reduce the influence of early states.
What is the Delaware Plan in the context of primary elections?
The Delaware Plan proposes that small states vote first in the primary process, followed by progressively larger states, to balance influence.
Explain the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact.
The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact is an agreement among states to pledge their electors to the winner of the national popular vote, aiming to ensure that the electoral outcome reflects the popular will.
Describe the structure of the Electoral College.
The Electoral College consists of 538 electors who represent states based on their congressional representation, determining the outcome of presidential elections.
What is the winner-takes-all system in the Electoral College?
In the winner-takes-all system, most states award all their electoral votes to the candidate who wins the popular vote in that state.
Explain the Maine/Nebraska exception in the Electoral College system.
Maine and Nebraska allocate their electoral votes based on congressional districts rather than using a winner-takes-all approach, allowing for a more proportional representation of votes.
Describe the concept of Faithless Electors.
Faithless Electors are electors who vote against their pledged candidate, but historically, they have never changed the outcome of an election.
Explain the potential for Minority Presidents in U.S. elections.
The potential for Minority Presidents exists when the candidate who wins the presidency does not win the popular vote, as seen in the elections of 2000 and 2016.
Define one argument for abolishing the Electoral College.
One argument for abolishing the Electoral College is that it can elect a president who loses the popular vote, exemplified by Al Gore in 2000 and Hillary Clinton in 2016.
How does the Electoral College overrepresent small states?
The Electoral College overrepresents small states because states like Wyoming have more electoral votes per capita compared to larger states like California.
Discuss the impact of the Electoral College on campaign strategies.
The Electoral College leads candidates to focus their campaigning efforts on swing states, often neglecting large portions of the electorate.
What effect does the Electoral College have on voter turnout?
The Electoral College can suppress voter turnout, as voters in safe states may feel that their votes do not matter.
Summarize public opinion on the Electoral College based on a 2020 Gallup poll.
According to a 2020 Gallup poll, 61% of respondents supported reforming or abolishing the Electoral College.
Explain an argument for keeping the Electoral College.
One argument for keeping the Electoral College is that it usually delivers the right outcome, with errors being rare.
How does the Electoral College protect federalism?
The Electoral College protects federalism by ensuring that presidential campaigns focus on a broad geographic area rather than just populous regions.
What is a challenge to abolishing the Electoral College?
A challenge to abolishing the Electoral College is that it requires a constitutional amendment, which needs two-thirds congressional approval and ratification by three-fourths of the states.
Describe the interests of smaller states regarding the Electoral College.
Smaller states benefit from the Electoral College system and would likely veto any reform proposals that threaten their influence.
What is the Nebraska/Maine system in relation to the Electoral College?
The Nebraska/Maine system allows electoral votes to be split between candidates, and there are suggestions to expand this system nationwide, which could lead to more gerrymandering.
How would the Nebraska/Maine system have affected the 2020 election results?
Had the Nebraska/Maine system been used in the 2020 election, it would have reduced Biden’s winning margin to 277-261 and produced a more disproportionate result.
What is the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact?
The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact is an agreement where states pledge to allocate their electoral votes to the candidate who wins the national popular vote; by March 2021, 15 states plus DC had signed up.
Identify a limitation of the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact.
A limitation of the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact is that, as of March 2021, not one traditionally red state had signed up for it.
Describe the advantages that incumbents have in American elections.
Incumbents benefit from name recognition, a track record of past achievements, and the ability to project experience and commitment to public office. Historically, incumbency has resulted in high reelection rates, such as the 90.5% reelection rate in the 2018 midterms.
Explain how incumbency affects presidential elections.
Presidential incumbency is a strong advantage, with only two modern one-term presidents (Jimmy Carter and George H.W. Bush). However, success often depends on the state of the economy, as seen in 2024 when 45% of exit poll respondents felt worse off under Biden, making the economy and inflation crucial issues.
Define the impact of economic issues on elections.
Economic competence is a major determinant of election outcomes. James Carville’s phrase, ‘It’s the economy, stupid!’ highlighted this in Bill Clinton’s 1992 campaign, which successfully attacked George H.W. Bush’s economic record.
How do crises affect an incumbent’s chances in elections?
Voter perception of crisis management can significantly shift approval ratings. For example, George W. Bush’s response to 9/11 led to a 90% approval rating and reelection success, while his handling of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 caused his approval to plummet to 38%.
What is an ‘October Surprise’ and how can it influence elections?
An October Surprise refers to an unexpected event late in a campaign that can shift voter sentiment. In 2016, Trump’s ‘Access Hollywood’ tape and Hillary Clinton’s private email investigation were key factors in shaping voter perceptions.
Describe the role of political ads in elections.
Political ads help candidates control their public image and attack opponents, highlighting achievements while criticizing rivals.
Explain how televised debates can influence election outcomes.
Televised debates can be pivotal, as seen in 1960 when Kennedy’s composed appearance contrasted with Nixon’s look, leading viewers to favor JFK.
How has social media transformed election campaigns?
Social media is crucial for reinforcing political bases rather than swaying undecided voters, with figures like Trump using platforms to communicate directly with supporters.
Define the impact of mainstream media partisanship on elections.
Growing partisanship in media shapes voter perceptions, with outlets like Fox News and MSNBC influencing public opinion and scrutiny of candidates.
Do leadership qualities and personality play a significant role in elections?
Yes, modern elections emphasize individual candidates over party affiliation, with slogans focusing on personal leadership.
Explain the concept of the ‘cult of personality’ in politics and its relation to social media.
Social media contributes to the ‘cult of personality’ by allowing candidates to build a personal brand and connect directly with supporters.
Describe the influence of social media on political candidates.
Social media allows candidates to build direct followings, often overshadowing party influence. For example, by early 2020, Trump had 42 million Twitter followers, while the GOP account had only 2.4 million.
Explain the paradoxical qualities expected in a political leader.
Voters expect a leader to be principled yet pragmatic, compassionate yet tough, and decisive yet consultative.
How can personal scandals affect a politician’s career?
Personal scandals can end political careers, as demonstrated by the #MeToo movement, which led to resignations like John Conyers in 2017.
Define the demographic factors that influence voting behavior.
Key demographic factors include gender, race, religion, education, geography, and political self-identification.
How does age and gender influence voting trends in elections?
In 2024, Harris won 53% of female voters while Trump secured 55% of male voters.
Explain the impact of ethnicity on voting patterns in recent elections.
Ethnic minorities largely supported Harris (64%), while Trump won 57% of the white vote in the 2024 election.
Describe the relationship between education level and voting patterns.
More educated voters tend to support Democrats. In 2024, Harris won 53% of college graduates and 59% of postgraduates, while Trump performed better among non-college-educated voters.
How does campaign financing influence election outcomes?
Money is crucial for advertising, strategy, and outreach. While it doesn’t guarantee victory, a well-funded campaign has a higher chance of success.
Explain the significance of campaign spending in the 2020 and 2016 elections.
In 2020, Biden outspent Trump, while in 2016, Hillary Clinton heavily outspent Trump but still lost the election.
Describe the role of Super PACs in elections.
Super PACs raise and spend unlimited funds to support candidates, significantly influencing election dynamics.
Define a realigning election.
A realigning election occurs when a significant voter group shifts party allegiance, altering long-term voting patterns.
Explain the impact of the ‘Southern Strategy’ on political realignment.
Beginning with Goldwater and Nixon, Republicans appealed to conservative white Southerners disillusioned with the Democratic Party’s civil rights stance, transforming the South into a Republican stronghold.
How has the political landscape changed in coastal states over time?
The West and East Coasts, once competitive, have become Democratic strongholds. Vermont, once Republican-dominated, now consistently votes Democrat.
What was significant about the 1932 election in terms of political realignment?
Amid the Great Depression, FDR built a broad New Deal coalition, flipping Democratic Electoral College votes from 87 in 1928 to 472 in 1932, reshaping political loyalties.
How did the 1968 election reflect changes in political alignment?
Nixon capitalized on Democratic divisions over Vietnam and civil rights, appealing to the ‘silent majority’ and Southern conservatives, solidifying Republican dominance in the South.
Describe the voter shifts that occurred in the 2016 election.
White working-class voters who previously supported Obama switched to Trump due to concerns over immigration, economic alienation, and partisan polarization.
Describe the balance U.S. political parties must maintain between core voter groups and broader appeal.
U.S. political parties must retain their core voters to ensure a solid base while also appealing to a broader electorate. If they focus solely on a small segment, it reduces their chances of winning elections. Therefore, they need to combine multiple complementary groups and attract moderates.
Explain the risks associated with a political party ignoring its base support.
Ignoring core voters can disincentivize them from voting, which weakens the party’s overall electoral strength and diminishes its chances of success in elections.
Identify the core voting groups of the Republican Party and the policies that appeal to them.
The Republican Party’s core voting groups include white evangelical Christians, who support pro-life policies, pro-Israel stances, and traditional social values regarding LGBTQ+ rights, and gun owners, who are strong defenders of the Second Amendment and oppose most gun control measures.
Identify the core voting groups of the Democratic Party and the policies that appeal to them.
The Democratic Party’s core voting groups include African Americans, who support civil rights protections, oppose voter suppression measures, advocate for fair policing, and prioritize poverty reduction, and public sector labor unions, which favor higher minimum wages, increased investment in public services, and the protection of workers’ rights.
Discuss the importance of campaign finance in U.S. elections.
Campaign finance is crucial in U.S. elections as it determines the resources available for candidates to promote their messages, reach voters, and compete effectively. The amount of money spent can significantly influence election outcomes.
How does the spending of major parties in recent U.S. elections impact their strategies?
The spending of major parties in recent U.S. elections impacts their strategies by necessitating a focus on fundraising, resource allocation, and targeted campaigning to maximize voter outreach and engagement.
Describe the spending differences between Democrats and Republicans in the 2020 election.
In 2020, Democrats spent $3.16 billion while Republicans spent $829 million.
Explain the spending of the Harris Victory Fund (PAC) in the context of the 2024 election.
The Harris Victory Fund (PAC) alone spent $1.31 billion to influence the 2024 election.
How much did 11,000 groups collectively spend to influence the 2024 election?
11,000 groups collectively spent $14.7 billion to influence the 2024 election.
Define the significance of Michael Bloomberg’s spending in the 2020 Democratic primaries.
Michael Bloomberg spent over $1 billion of his own money on campaign ads and staffing despite not winning a single state, highlighting the impact of personal wealth in political campaigns.
Identify typical areas where campaign money is spent.
Campaign money is typically spent on candidate visibility and messaging, hiring specialists, staffing and maintaining offices, travel and events for national campaigns.
Explain the advertising costs for Biden and Trump’s campaigns by mid-October 2020.
By mid-October 2020, Biden and Trump’s campaigns spent a combined total of $175 million on Facebook ads and $750 million on TV ads.
Discuss the sources of campaign funding for candidates.
Campaign funding comes from self-funding by wealthy candidates and donations from supporters.
How did Donald Trump’s self-funding change from the 2016 to the 2020 campaign?
Donald Trump put $66 million of his own money into his 2016 campaign but only $8,000 in 2020.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of self-funding in political campaigns?
Advantages include freedom from donor influence and avoiding corruption accusations; disadvantages include the potential perception of elitism and disconnection from the electorate.
Provide an example of a candidate who raised significant funds from small donations.
Bernie Sanders raised $40 million from small donations in March 2016 alone.
Explain the influence of retirees on campaign donations and policies.
Retirees tend to donate more, which can influence candidates’ policies, as seen with Ron DeSantis’s focus on pensioners in Florida.
Describe the purpose of Political Action Committees (PACs).
PACs were established in the 1940s to raise and distribute money to favored candidates.
Explain the function of Leadership PACs.
Leadership PACs allow politicians to fund other candidates’ campaigns.
How did Super PACs come into existence?
Super PACs emerged after the Supreme Court’s decision in Citizens United v. FEC in 2010.
Define the spending capabilities of Super PACs.
Super PACs cannot donate directly to candidates but can spend unlimited amounts on independent advertisements.
Provide an example of a Super PAC and its support in the 2020 election.
Future Forward USA backed Biden in 2020, while Preserve America PAC supported Trump.
What percentage of Trump’s first-term appointees were campaign donors?
38% of Trump’s first-term appointees were campaign donors.
Discuss the trend of federal government funding in campaigns.
Matching public funds were once common but declined after Obama rejected it in 2008, with John McCain being the last major candidate to accept it.
Analyze the relationship between campaign spending and election outcomes.
While high-spending candidates often win, the relationship is complex; only 4 of the 10 most expensive 2020 Senate races were won by the highest spender.
What was the average amount raised by incumbents in the 2020 Senate race?
Incumbents raised an average of $22.2 million, while challengers raised $3.7 million.
Explain the significance of Kimberly Klacik’s spending in Maryland’s Democratic 7th district.
Despite Klacik outspending Mfume $4.8 million to $602,000, Mfume won with 72% of the vote.
What are the arguments for regulating campaign finance?
Arguments for regulation include the explosion of election spending and lawmakers being too focused on fundraising instead of governing.
How did the total spending in the 2020 elections compare to previous elections?
The total spending in 2020 exceeded the combined total of the previous two elections.
What challenges do House representatives face regarding campaign fundraising?
House representatives must campaign every two years, which can distract them from governing.
Describe the impact of high election costs on candidate participation.
High election costs discourage non-wealthy candidates from running for office.
Explain the imbalance in PAC donations between corporate and labor groups.
Corporate groups heavily outspend labor groups, creating a 7:1 imbalance in PAC donations.
How did Citizens United (2010) affect campaign finance?
Citizens United expanded the role of Super PACs, necessitating reforms to curb excessive spending.
Define ‘dark money’ in the context of campaign finance.
Dark money refers to anonymous donations made by groups like 501(c) organizations, which lack disclosure.
What trend has been observed in federal matching funding from 2000 to 2016?
Federal matching funding has become obsolete, dropping from $240 million in 2000 to just $1 million in 2016.
Explain the argument against the regulation of campaign spending.
One argument is that presidential campaign spending was slightly lower in 2016 than in 2008 and 2012, suggesting spending does not always increase.
How do candidates maintain accountability to voters despite campaign donations?
Candidates must appeal to a broad electorate regardless of donations, making them accountable to voters.
What role do political donations play in democracy according to some arguments?
Political donations enable supporters to express their beliefs and strengthen democracy.
Describe the free-market approach to campaign funding.
The free-market approach ensures that only popular candidates and causes receive substantial funding.
What was affirmed by Supreme Court rulings regarding campaign finance laws?
Supreme Court rulings, such as McConnell v. FEC (2003), upheld parts of campaign finance laws, affirming First Amendment rights.
How is transparency maintained in political donations?
Most political donations are disclosed and traceable, ensuring some level of transparency.
What did former Justices Stevens and O’Connor say about wealthy individuals and regulation?
They noted that no matter the regulation, wealthy individuals will always find loopholes, stating: ‘Money, like water, will always find an outlet.’
Describe the role of a referendum in direct democracy at the state level in the USA.
A referendum serves as a crucial tool in direct democracy, allowing voters to directly influence specific policy issues or proposed laws. This mechanism empowers citizens to have a direct say in legislative matters, such as constitutional amendments, tax reforms, or social issues. By engaging in referendums, citizens can shape their state’s legal framework, fostering civic engagement and encouraging informed participation in decisions that significantly affect their lives. For instance, in 2024, several states, including Kansas, voted on abortion rights through referendums.
Explain the concept of ballot initiatives or propositions in the context of U.S. democracy.
Ballot initiatives, also known as propositions, represent a form of direct democracy where voters can propose new laws or amendments. To place a proposal on the ballot, a specified number of signatures must be collected from registered voters. This process is a significant aspect of participatory governance in the U.S. Notable examples include California Proposition 64 in 2016, which legalized recreational marijuana, and Proposition 3 in 2024, which amended the state constitution to affirm marriage as a fundamental right for same-sex couples, ensuring their protection against potential federal rollbacks.
Define recall elections and their significance in the electoral process.
Recall elections are a mechanism that allows voters to remove an elected official from office before the end of their term, serving as a vital check on political accountability. This process can be initiated when constituents express dissatisfaction with an official’s performance, ensuring that elected representatives remain responsive to the needs and concerns of the public. Recall elections enhance democratic engagement by empowering citizens to hold their leaders accountable. A notable instance occurred in 2003 when California’s gubernatorial recall election led to Arnold Schwarzenegger’s victory, illustrating the impact of this democratic tool.
Describe the outcome of the 2021 California gubernatorial recall election.
The 2021 California gubernatorial recall election resulted in Governor Gavin Newsom successfully retaining his position, winning with 61.88% of the vote. This election was significant as it highlighted the challenges of recall efforts in California, where the governor faced opposition but ultimately garnered strong support from voters, reflecting a preference for stability during a tumultuous political climate.
Explain how direct democracy operates at the state level in the U.S. compared to the UK.
Direct democracy in the U.S. operates primarily at the state level, allowing citizens to vote directly on laws and policies through initiatives and referendums. In contrast, the UK has limited mechanisms for direct democracy, with such practices being rare. Each U.S. state has its own laws governing direct democracy, with California being a prominent example, where the process can be lengthy and costly, often influenced by interest groups.
How much financial investment is typically involved in direct democracy campaigns?
Direct democracy campaigns can require substantial financial investment, particularly for high-profile ballot initiatives. In 2020, nearly $1.2 billion was spent on campaigning for various direct democracy measures across the U.S. Notably, a single California ballot initiative in that year saw campaign spending reach $220 million, illustrating the significant resources that interest groups and advocates are willing to allocate to influence voter decisions.
Define the main arguments supporting direct democracy in the U.S.
Supporters of direct democracy argue that it offers several benefits, including the ability for states to enact laws that reflect their unique political priorities and demographics. It enhances accountability by allowing voters to hold state officials responsible between elections, provides additional checks and balances on government actions, and increases political participation by enabling pressure groups to influence decision-making. The popularity of direct democracy is evident, with numerous measures appearing on ballots, addressing issues often overlooked by traditional political parties.
How does direct democracy enhance political participation among citizens?
Direct democracy enhances political participation by providing citizens with opportunities to engage directly in the legislative process. It allows individuals and interest groups to propose initiatives and referendums, thereby influencing policy decisions that affect their lives. This mechanism empowers voters to voice their opinions on critical issues, fosters civic engagement, and encourages grassroots movements. For instance, organizations like the NRA have successfully backed measures that resonate with their constituents, demonstrating how direct democracy can mobilize public support and participation.
Describe the concept of tyranny of the majority in the context of direct democracy.
Tyranny of the majority refers to a situation in direct democracy where the majority’s decisions can infringe upon the rights and interests of minority groups. This occurs when majority voters enact laws or policies that may be detrimental to minority populations, such as language requirements for driving tests that exclude non-English speakers. This concept raises concerns about fairness and equity in a democratic system, highlighting the potential for majoritarian rule to lead to oppression.
Explain the legal inconsistencies that can arise from direct democracy.
Legal inconsistencies in direct democracy occur when different states or regions enact varying laws based on popular votes, leading to a patchwork of regulations. For instance, prior to the Supreme Court’s decision in Obergefell v. Hodges, states had differing laws regarding same-sex marriage, creating confusion and inequality. Such inconsistencies can undermine the uniform application of laws across a nation, complicating legal processes and affecting citizens’ rights depending on their location.
Discuss the political tactics associated with direct democracy and their implications.
Political tactics in direct democracy often involve losing factions leveraging ballot initiatives to challenge existing policies or gain political traction. This can undermine the principles of representative government, as it allows groups to bypass elected officials and directly influence legislation. Such tactics can lead to instability and conflict within the political system, as they may provoke backlash from those who support the status quo, ultimately complicating governance and policy-making.
How can excessive checks and balances impact the effectiveness of direct democracy?
Excessive checks and balances can hinder the effectiveness of direct democracy by creating bureaucratic gridlock. In systems where governors possess veto power, adding direct democracy measures may complicate decision-making processes. This can lead to delays in implementing popular initiatives, as multiple layers of approval are required. Consequently, the intended benefits of direct democracy, such as responsiveness to public opinion, may be diminished, resulting in frustration among voters and reduced trust in the political system.
Explain the concept of democratic overload and its effects on voter participation.
Democratic overload refers to the phenomenon where ballots become excessively long and complex due to numerous initiatives and measures being presented to voters. This can lead to voter fatigue, as individuals may feel overwhelmed by the amount of information and choices they must navigate. As a result, participation rates can decline, with voters opting to skip certain measures or abstain from voting altogether. This undermines the democratic process, as it may prevent the expression of true public sentiment on important issues.
Describe the influence of pressure groups in the context of direct democracy.
Pressure groups, or interest groups, exert significant influence in U.S. politics, and their impact can be magnified in direct democracy scenarios. These groups often mobilize resources to support or oppose ballot initiatives, which can increase the overall cost of elections. Their involvement can skew the democratic process, as well-funded groups may dominate the discourse, overshadowing the voices of average voters. This raises concerns about the integrity of direct democracy, as the interests of powerful groups may take precedence over the collective will of the electorate.
Discuss the challenges of low voter turnout and manipulation in ballot initiatives.
Low voter turnout in ballot initiatives poses a significant challenge to the legitimacy of direct democracy. Often, only a small fraction of the electorate participates, which can lead to outcomes that do not accurately reflect the broader public opinion. Additionally, political parties may exploit these initiatives to manipulate voter behavior, as seen in North Dakota in 2018, where a cannabis legalization initiative was used to attract young voters to support a Democratic candidate. Such tactics can distort the democratic process, raising ethical concerns about the motivations behind ballot measures.
Define split-ticket voting and provide examples from recent elections.
Split-ticket voting is the practice of voters selecting candidates from different political parties for various offices on the same ballot. This behavior reflects a nuanced approach to voting, where individuals may support a party for one position while favoring candidates from another party for different roles. In the 2024 elections, notable examples include Democrats winning Senate seats in states like Arizona and Michigan, despite Kamala Harris losing those states. Additionally, in North Carolina, Democrat Josh Stein won the gubernatorial race by a significant margin while Trump secured the state, illustrating the complexities of voter preferences.
Explain the trend of split-ticket voting in recent U.S. elections.
Split-ticket voting, where voters select candidates from different parties for various offices, has seen a decline in recent years primarily due to increasing political polarization. Voters are now more likely to align with a single party, influenced by the prioritization of individual candidates over party affiliation. Additionally, the historical diversity within U.S. parties has diminished, leading to more ideologically homogeneous parties. The presence of multiple elected offices also provides opportunities for split choices, but the trend leans towards party loyalty.
Describe the impact of voter abstention on U.S. elections.
Voter abstention significantly influences electoral outcomes and the strategies employed by campaigns. High abstention rates can skew results, as seen in the 2016 Presidential Election where only 55.7% of the voting-age population participated. Primary elections often see turnout below 30%, which affects how candidates approach campaigning. Midterm elections traditionally experience low turnout, exemplified by only 42% participation in 2014, leading to concerns about representation and the legitimacy of elected officials.
Define the factors contributing to high voter abstention rates in the U.S.
Several factors contribute to high voter abstention rates in the U.S. Voter disillusionment and apathy are significant, as many citizens feel their votes do not matter. Additionally, a lack of appealing candidates can lead to disengagement, with voters feeling unrepresented. Concerns about the electoral process, including perceptions of inefficacy and fairness, further deter participation. Moreover, voting restrictions imposed by some states create additional barriers, making it more challenging for citizens to exercise their right to vote.
How has political polarization affected voting behavior in the U.S.?
Political polarization has profoundly affected voting behavior in the U.S., leading to a decline in split-ticket voting. As voters increasingly identify with a single party, they prioritize party loyalty over individual candidate qualities. This shift has resulted in less ideological diversity within parties, making it harder for voters to find candidates that align with their views across party lines. Consequently, elections have become more predictable, with voters often casting ballots strictly along party lines, reinforcing the divide in political affiliations.
