Elections 5.1 Flashcards
What is the frequency of presidential elections in the USA?
Every 4 years
This is established in Article II of the Constitution.
When was the first presidential election in the USA held?
1788
What happens if a president dies in office regarding the presidential election?
No special election is held; the vice president assumes the presidency.
For example, after the assassination of President John Kennedy, Vice President Lyndon Johnson completed Kennedy’s term.
When is the presidential election held according to federal law?
On the Tuesday after the first Monday in November of every fourth year.
What are the main stages of the presidential election process?
- Invisible primary
- Primaries and caucuses
- Choosing vice presidential candidate(s)
- National party conventions
- General election
- Election Day
- Electoral College voting
What occurs during the invisible primary stage?
Candidates’ announcements, increasing name recognition, fundraising, intra-party TV debates.
What is the purpose of primaries and caucuses?
Show popular support for candidates and choose delegates to attend national party conventions.
What happens at national party conventions?
Confirm presidential and vice presidential candidates, approve party platform, acceptance speech delivered by presidential candidate.
What is the focus of the general election stage?
Campaign between the candidates of various parties.
When does Election Day occur?
Tuesday after the first Monday in November.
What happens during the Electoral College voting?
Electors vote in their state capitals to choose president and vice president.
What is one significant difference in voting behavior in the USA compared to the UK?
Differences in electoral systems and political party structures.
True or False: The USA has special elections if a president dies in office.
False
Fill in the blank: The presidential election process includes a stage called _______.
Invisible primary
What is the significance of the Electoral College in US presidential elections?
It formally elects the president and vice president based on state electors’ votes.
