Examples and Evidence for Direct Democracy

Question 1

What was the proposition in Arizona which protected the right to abortion?

Answer 1

Proposition 139 in 2024, won 61.6% of the vote

Question 2

How many signatures from registered voters does someone have to collect to propose a change to the state constitution?

Answer 2

8% of the votes cast in the last gubernatorial election

Question 3

How many states permit citizen initiatives?

Answer 3

24

Question 4

What was the Maine Question 1 referendum in 2012?

Answer 4

On whether a bill passed in the legislature to legalise same sex marriage should be upheld or not, passed with 52.6%

Question 5

What is a veto referendum?

Answer 5

This is a referendum to challenge a law which has been passed by the legislature, allowed in 24 states

Question 6

What are the requirements for a recall election in California?

Answer 6

Must receive signatures equal to 12% of the number of votes cast in the previous election for that office

Question 7

What is an example of a successful recall?

Answer 7

2003 recall of Governor Gray Davis

Question 8

Give the best example to demonstrate direct democracy helps to develop citizen insight into politics

Answer 8

California proposition 64 legalising the recreational use of marijuana passed with 57%

Question 9

Give the best example to demonstrate direct democracy is elitist

Answer 9

California proposition 22 classified drivers for Uber and Lyft as independent contractors so they would not receive benefits like health insurance. Reflects the interests of the elite

Question 10

Give the best example to demonstrate money in direct democracy determines the outcome

Answer 10

California proposition 22, Uber and Lyft raised $187.5 million for the vote yes campaign

Question 11

Give the best example to demonstrate direct democracy ensures minority interests are protected

Answer 11

Florida amendment 4 restored voting rights to 1.4 million felons who had served their sentence

Question 12

Give the best example to demonstrate direct democracy protects human rights

Answer 12

Nevada question 2 ensured that marriage was recognised regardless of the gender of those being married

Question 13

Give the best example to demonstrate that direct democracy ensures politicians are held to account

Answer 13

California governor Gray Davis recalled in 2003