Unit 5 Flashcards
Voting Rights Act (1965)
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 prohibits racial discrimination in voting. It requires certain states and localities to obtain federal approval before making changes to their voting laws or practices to prevent discrimination and ensure equal access to the ballot box. It has been amended several times over the years and some of its provisions have been challenged in court.
Preclearance
Preclearance is a provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that requires certain states and localities to obtain federal approval before making changes to their voting laws or practices. It was designed to prevent discrimination and ensure equal access to the ballot box. It was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2013, and some states have since enacted new voting laws that have been criticized for disproportionately affecting minority voters.
Rational choice voting
Rational choice voting is a theory that suggests voters make decisions based on their self-interest and the perceived benefits they will receive from supporting a particular candidate or policy. It assumes voters are rational actors who have access to complete and accurate information, but critics argue it oversimplifies the decision-making process and fails to account for many social, cultural, and emotional factors that can influence voters’ choices.
Retrospective voting
Retrospective voting is a theory that suggests voters evaluate incumbents based on their past performance in office. It assumes that voters have access to information about the incumbent’s record and that they are able to evaluate that record fairly. Critics argue that it can lead to short-term thinking and a focus on immediate results rather than long-term planning and policy-making.
Prospective voting
Prospective voting is a theory that suggests voters evaluate candidates based on their perceived ability to deliver on campaign promises and effectively manage the challenges facing the country or community in the future. It assumes that voters have access to information about the candidate’s platform and qualifications, and that they are able to evaluate that information fairly. Critics argue that it can lead to unrealistic expectations and disappointment if the candidate is unable to deliver on their promises.
Party-line voting
Party-line voting is a phenomenon where voters cast their ballots for candidates from the same political party across all races on the ballot. It assumes that voters are loyal to their party and that they trust the party to nominate candidates who share their values and priorities. Critics argue that it can lead to the election of unqualified or ineffective candidates and a lack of diversity in elected officials.
Structural barriers to voting
Structural barriers to voting are policies and procedures that make it difficult for certain groups of people to vote. Examples include voter ID laws, mid-term elections, and procedures on where to vote. These barriers can disproportionately affect certain groups of people, such as low-income voters, people of color, and young people, and can undermine the fairness and integrity of the electoral process.
Candidate characteristics that influence voters
Candidate characteristics such as background, age, gender, race or ethnicity, and political party affiliation can influence voters’ decisions at the ballot box. Some voters may also be swayed by a candidate’s personality traits. However, critics argue that these factors can sometimes overshadow a candidate’s actual qualifications or policy positions.
Political Efficacy
Political efficacy is an individual’s belief in their ability to participate effectively in the political process. High levels of political efficacy are associated with greater political engagement, while low levels can lead to disengagement and apathy among voters.
Linkage institutions
Linkage institutions connect citizens to the political process. Examples include political parties, interest groups, the media, and elections. They provide a way for citizens to organize around shared political goals, advocate for specific policies, and hold representatives accountable.
Mobilization of voters
Mobilization of voters is the act of encouraging people to participate in the political process, particularly by voting in elections. Efforts can include door-to-door canvassing, phone banking, direct mail, and digital outreach. Mobilization is often targeted at specific demographic groups and can be important in closely contested elections.
Party platforms
A party platform is a document that outlines a political party’s principles, policies, and goals. It’s designed to provide a clear statement of the party’s positions on a wide range of issues. Candidates use it to communicate their positions to voters, but some critics argue that they can be too broad and vague.
Candidate recruitment
Candidate recruitment is the process of identifying and encouraging potential candidates to run for public office. Political parties, interest groups, and other organizations engage in recruitment efforts to find individuals who share their values and policy goals. The goal is to identify individuals who can win elections and be effective representatives, but some critics argue that recruitment efforts should be more focused on finding diverse candidates.
Campaign management
Campaign management is the process of planning, organizing, and executing a political campaign. It includes developing a campaign strategy, hiring staff, fundraising, organizing events, conducting research, and creating campaign materials. The goal is to create a coordinated effort that maximizes a candidate’s chances of winning an election. Successful campaign managers must be able to adapt to changing circumstances and make strategic decisions under pressure.
Role of the State in an election
The state’s role in an election is to ensure that it’s conducted fairly and that the results are accurate. They register voters, provide polling places and voting machines, and regulate campaign finance. The goal is to ensure that the election process is transparent, accessible, and fair to all voters and candidates.
Candidate-centered campaigns
Candidate-centered campaigns focus on the candidate’s personality, experience, and qualifications. They use personal stories, images, and slogans to create a connection with voters. The goal is to create a positive image of the candidate and build voter enthusiasm and support.
Coalition building
Coalition building is the process of forming alliances between different groups or individuals to achieve a common goal. It involves negotiating, compromising, building relationships, and developing a shared vision. Successful coalition building requires strong leadership, effective communication, and a willingness to work collaboratively with others. The goal is to create a broad-based coalition that can mobilize support and achieve meaningful change.
Critical Elections / Realignment
Critical Elections or Realignment Elections result in a significant shift in the political alignment of voters. They often occur after a period of political crisis or social upheaval and can lead to the emergence of new political parties or the realignment of existing ones. The term “Realignment” refers to the process of redefining the political landscape that occurs after a Critical Election.
Hard Money
Hard money is political donations given directly to a candidate or party and subject to federal or state campaign finance laws. They are limited in amount and must be reported to the government. It’s considered more transparent and accountable than other types of political fundraising.
Soft Money
Soft money is political donations given to parties and not directly to a candidate or campaign. They are not subject to federal or state campaign finance laws and have no limits on the amount that can be given. It’s often used to fund political activities that indirectly support a candidate or party.
Independent Expenditures
Independent expenditures are political campaign communications made by individuals or groups not affiliated with a candidate or party. They are not subject to contribution limits or campaign finance regulations, and can be used to support or oppose a candidate or issue.
FEC (Federal Election Commission)
The FEC is an independent agency that enforces federal campaign finance laws in the United States. It ensures that political organizations comply with laws governing campaign finance and provides guidance and education to the public. The agency is made up of six commissioners appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (McCain
Feingold Act)
The McCain-Feingold Act is a federal law that regulates the financing of political campaigns in the United States. It established new limits on campaign contributions, prohibited corporations, unions, and other groups from making “soft money” contributions to political parties, and required political advertisements to disclose the identity of the sponsor. The Supreme Court has upheld some provisions of the law and struck down others in subsequent cases.
