Chapter Ten Participation, Voting, and Elections Multiple Choice 1. Citizens who have a say in the national decision-making process show greater levels of __________ with the political system as a whole. a. dissatisfaction b. disenfranchisement c. apathy d. appreciation e. satisfaction. Answer: e. satisfaction. 2. In a nation as large as the United States, the Athenian kind of democracy is a. absolutely necessary. b. challenging, but attainable. c. logistically impossible. d. helped by the fact that in addition to the large geographic size, there also exists a large population. e. is necessary for full democratic rights. Answer: c. logistically impossible. 3. What percent of the American population is deeply involved in the political process? a. 1 percent b. 10 percent c. 22 percent d. 34 percent e. 45 percent Answer: b. 10 percent 4. What percent of American citizens are completely inactive in the political process? a. 10 percent b. 20 percent c. 33 percent d. 50 percent e. 75 percent Answer: b. 20 percent 5. In summarizing the participation levels of the American citizens, one can conclude that a. very few Americans are active to any degree in politics. b. close to half of the population is engaged in some form of politically oriented activity. c. nearly all Americans are active participants in political life. d. only 10 percent of the population watches political television ads. e. citizens are never active in political life unless an election is involved. Answer: b. close to half of the population is engaged in some form of politically oriented activity. 6. The people at the high end of political activity tend to be a. low-income, poorly educated, and minority group members who see major stakes in governmental actions. b. well-educated, middle- and upper-income voters. c. equally poor and well off, black and white. d. well-educated, moderate-income minority group members. e. profession women with high levels of education. Answer: b. well-educated, middle- and upper-income voters. 7. The right of African American males to vote was guaranteed by the a. Voting Rights Act of 1866. b. Fifteenth Amendment. c. Emancipation Proclamation. d. presidential Executive Order No. 101. e. Twenty-sixth Amendment. Answer: b. Fifteenth Amendment. 8. The poll tax, the literacy test, and the good-character test were all designed to a. keep women from voting. b. keep African Americans from voting. c. encourage women to vote. d. encourage African Americans to vote. e. to provide greater access to voting for all people. Answer: b. keep African Americans from voting. 9. All of the following were used by southern states to keep African Americans from voting EXCEPT a. use of intimidation and threats of violence. b. requiring the payment of a poll tax prior to voting. c. passing laws that stated that former slaves and children of slaves could not vote. d. using difficult literacy tests when African Americans sought to register. e. none of the above. Answer: c. passing laws that stated that former slaves and children of slaves could not vote. 10. What Amendment gave women the right to vote? a. Eighteenth b. Nineteenth c. Twenty-third d. Twenty-sixth e. Twenty-fourth Answer: b. Nineteenth 11. All of the Amendments expanded political participation EXCEPT the a. Eighteenth Amendment. b. Nineteenth Amendment. c. Twenty-third Amendment. d. Twenty-sixth Amendment. e. Twenty-fourth Amendment. Answer: a. Eighteenth Amendment. 12. A fee that had to be paid before one could vote that was used to prevent African Americans from voting is known as a. a good character test. b. literacy test. c. electoral responsiveness. d. voter turn way. e. poll tax Answer: e. poll tax 13. A requirement that voting applicants had to demonstrate an understanding of national and state constitutions and that was primarily used to prevent African Americans from voting in the South is known as a. a good character test. b. literacy test. c. electoral responsiveness. d. voter turn way. e. poll tax Answer: b. literacy test. 14. A requirement that voting applicants wishing to vote produce two or more registered voters to vouch for their integrity is known as a. a good character test. b. literacy test. c. electoral responsiveness. d. voter turn way. e. poll tax Answer: a. a good character test. 15. Many political observers measure the health of a democracy by the degree to which citizens participate in elections. This is referred to as a. voter turnout. b. voter pullover. c. voter mobility. d. electoral responsiveness rate. e. the good character test. Answer: a. voter turnout. 16. Which of the following amendments extended the right to vote to the District of Columbia? a. The Fifteenth. b. The Eighteenth. c. The Nineteenth. d. The Twenty-second. e. The Twenty-third. Answer: e. The Twenty-third. 17. The most central act in a democracy is the citizen’s decision to a. protest. b. write their Congress person. c. register to vote. d. contribute money to a campaign. e. vote. Answer: e. vote. 18. As many as __________ registered voters were prevented or discouraged from casting their ballots in the 2008 election, demonstrating major malfunctions in the country’s election process a. 1 million b. 3 million c. 5 million d. 7 million e. 10 million Answer: d. 7 million 19. The percentage of eligible voters who actually show up and vote on election day is called a. voter turnout. b. voter pullover. c. voter mobility. d. electoral responsiveness rate. e. the good character test. Answer: a. voter turnout. 20. Registration laws in most states seem designed to a. depress election turnout rates. b. increase election turnout rates. c. have no effect on election turnout rates. d. hide election turnout rates. e. prevent fraudulent voting. Answer: a. depress election turnout rates. 21. What percentage of Americans live in states where they must register to vote in advance? a. 10 percent b. 20 percent c. between 30 and 40 percent d. around 75 percent e. more than 90 percent Answer: e. more than 90 percent 22. The National Voter Registration Act (1995) encouraged voter registration by simplifying the registration process. This act is also known as a. the Campus-wide Voter Initiative. b. the Simplified Registration Initiative c. the Motor Cycle Voter Law. d. the Same-day registration law. e. the Motor-Voter Law. Answer: e. the Motor-Voter Law. 23. Which of the following variables DOES NOT affect Voting? a. education b. social status c. age d. career e. marital status Answer: d. career 24. The higher one’s socioeconomic level a. the more likely one is to vote. b. the less likely one is to vote. c. the less likely one is to run for political office. d. the more likely one is to refuse to make a financial contribution to a political campaign. e. the more apathy exhibited toward the electoral system. Answer: a. the more likely one is to vote. 25. What is the most common form of political participation? a. voting in elections b. campaign work c. seeking information d. civil disobedience e. protest. Answer: a. voting in elections 26. Which of the following are policy proposals placed on the ballot for voter consideration at the instigation of a group of citizens? a. “white papers” b. initiatives c. term limits d. short-term elections e. red and blue papers. Answer: b. initiatives 27. If the California legislature were to ask the voters to approve the sale of state bonds to finance various programs, such as education and prisons, this would be an example of a(n) a. initiative. b. referendum. c. poll. d. questionnaire. e. white paper. Answer: b. referendum. 28. The one overwhelming influence on voting decisions is a. region of residence. b. sex and sexual preference. c. party identification. d. religion. e. incumbency. Answer: c. party identification. 29. Party loyalists who vote for only one party are said to be voting a. protest votes. b. split-ticket ballots. c. straight-party tickets. d. without consideration for rational alternatives. e. for the incumbent. Answer: c. straight-party tickets. 30. A nonpartisan election a. is illegal. b. only takes place at the federal level. c. allows voters to choose among candidates whose affiliation is unknown. d. violates the principle of “direct democracy.” e. is only used in primary elections. Answer: c. allows voters to choose among candidates whose affiliation is unknown. 31. What is the key determinant of voting? a. money b. image c. party affiliation d. age e. candidate appeal Answer: c. party affiliation 32. The powerful form of issue voting where voters look back over the last term to judge how well the incumbent candidate or party has performed is called a. retrospective voting. b. two-pronged voting. c. rational analysis voting. d. rudimentary voting. e. reflective voting. Answer: a. retrospective voting. 33. What was the dominant issue of the 1992 presidential campaign? a. healthcare b. the economy c. law and order d. family values e. war Answer: b. the economy 34. The most recent innovation in outlets for political information is a. fax machines. b. “spot radio ads.” c. television stations and programs that focus on political affairs. d. “talk shows at state public educational institutions.” e. the Internet. Answer: e. the Internet. 35. A form of political participation that takes the form of demonstrations, letters to newspapers and public officials, or opting out of the system by failing to vote or participate in any other way is known as a. boycotts. b. embargoes. c. civil disobedience. d. participatory democracy. e. protest. Answer: e. protest. 36. A means of political participation whereby people non-violently defy laws deemed unjust is called a. boycotts. b. embargoes. c. civil disobedience. d. participatory democracy. e. non-voting. Answer: c. civil disobedience. 37. Under our Constitution, House and Senate elections are held every a. two years. b. three years. c. four years. d. five years. e. seven years. Answer: a. two years. 38. Most candidates for Congress a. are nationally known. b. are not nationally known. c. are television celebrities. d. are average citizens in terms of economic class. e. are from the Midwest. Answer: b. are not nationally known. 39. Congressional elections a. generally receive less national attention than presidential elections. b. generally receive more national attention than the presidential election. c. are generally ignored by a future presidential candidate. d. are definite predictors regarding the outcome of future presidential elections. e. usually have a higher voter turnout that presidential elections. Answer: a. generally receive less national attention than presidential elections. 40. What is the “coattails effect”? a. all congressional candidates from one party running as a common partisan ticket b. the impact on congressional elections of the popularity or lack of popularity of the president c. the impact on elections of celebrity endorsements d. the impact on presidential elections of the popularity or lack of popularity of the congressional party e. a midterm election that occurs when the incumbent president is constitutionally prohibited from seeking re-election in the next presidential election. Answer: b. the impact on congressional elections of the popularity or lack of popularity of the president 41. Typically, in presidential elections, the winning presidential candidate’s party a. loses seats in Congress. b. gains seats in Congress. c. maintains the same number of seats in Congress. d. adopts a liberal philosophy toward welfare programs. e. has no effect on the election of seats in Congress. Answer: b. gains seats in Congress. 42. In 1980, who was defeated by Ronald Reagan? a. Hubert Humphrey b. Walter Mondale c. Jimmy Carter d. Robert Dole e. George H.W. Bush Answer: c. Jimmy Carter 43. What happened to the Democratic Party in the 1994 midterm congressional election? a. It saw itself ejected from its control of Congress. b. It substantially increased its representation in Congress. c. It held on to its current number of seats. d. It joined with the Republican Party to advocate a more extreme political philosophy. e. Nothing happened to the Democratic Party as a result of the election. Answer: a. It saw itself ejected from its control of Congress. 44. Identify the first presidential role model. a. George Washington b. John Adams c. Thomas Jefferson d. Abraham Lincoln e. Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Answer: a. George Washington 45. The Constitution indicates that the number of electors who will cast ballots for president and vice president a. cannot exceed 550. b. cannot be changed without an amendment. c. is to be determined by the president every ten years. d. is equal to the number of representatives and senators a state has in Congress. e. is equal to the number of senators a state has in Congress. Answer: d. is equal to the number of representatives and senators a state has in Congress. 46. The framers original idea to have an Electoral College was a. based on the concept of direct democracy. b. to strengthen the two-party system. c. to eliminate the need for factions. d. to have electors use their own discretion in deciding who would make the best president. e. to strengthen third party competition. Answer: d. to have electors use their own discretion in deciding who would make the best president. 47. The Twelfth Amendment a. abolished the Electoral College. b. guaranteed that the winner of the national popular vote would also win the electoral college. c. provided for casting separate Electoral College votes for president and vice president. d. lowered the voting age to eighteen. e. extended suffrage to the African American population. Answer: c. provided for casting separate Electoral College votes for president and vice president. 48. To be officially elected president one must a. receive a majority of the total Electoral College votes. b. have both the highest popular vote total and win a majority of the total Electoral College votes. c. win a majority in a congressional vote of confidence and investiture. d. win a plurality of total electoral college votes. e. win the popular vote. Answer: a. receive a majority of the total Electoral College votes. 49. A faithless elector a. is not a member of the electoral college. b. is a member of the Electoral College who casts his or her vote for someone other than the state’s popular vote winner. c. has never been present. d. is required to prove his or her political allegiance. e. is someone who believes his/her vote doesn’t count in an election. Answer: b. is a member of the Electoral College who casts his or her vote for someone other than the state’s popular vote winner. 50. An election held in the House if no candidate receives the required majority of votes in the Electoral College is referred to as a a. contingency election. b. disputed election. c. non-political election. d. selective election. e. null and void election Answer: a. contingency election. 51. What are the two states that do not choose electors on a winner-take-all basis? a. Nebraska and Maine b. Texas and Louisiana c. California and Nevada d. Alabama and Mississippi e. Florida and California Answer: a. Nebraska and Maine 52. The most favored alternative to the Electoral College is a. independent voting by special recognized groups. b. another indirect way of choosing the president. c. a direct vote to elect the president. d. computer-assisted voting by special government aides. e. allow representatives to choose the president. Answer: c. a direct vote to elect the president. 53. The 1932 presidential election is referred to as a. a “fluke of history.” b. a maintaining election. c. a deviating election. d. a realigning election. e. a reforming election. Answer: d. a realigning election. 54. An election in which the majority party of the day wins both Congress and the White House, maintaining its control of government is referred to as a. a “fluke of history.” b. a reforming election. c. a deviating election. d. a realigning election. e. a maintaining election. Answer: e. a maintaining election. 55. An election in which the minority party captures the White House because of short-term intervening forces, and thus a deviation from the expectation that power will remain in the hands of the dominant party is referred to as a. a “fluke of history.” b. a reforming election. c. a deviating election. d. a realigning election. e.. a maintaining election. Answer: c. a deviating election. 56. It is often said that __________ is the mother’s milk of politics. a. ambition b. greed c. patriotism d. money e. loyalty Answer: d. money 57. Buckley v. Valeo pertained to a. campaign spending. b. term limits. c. time allotment for campaigns. d. age limits for congressional offices. e. presidential vetoes. Answer: a. campaign spending. 58. Matching funds are cut off if a candidate does not receive __________ percent of the voters in two consecutive primaries. a. 10 b. 20 c. 30 d. 40 e. 50 Answer: a. 10 59. Independent expenditures are a. illegal in presidential campaigns. b. illegal in congressional campaigns. c. loopholes in the campaign finance law. d. no longer necessary because of large private donations. e. were eliminated with the Twenty-second amendment. Answer: c. loopholes in the campaign finance law. True or False 60. Mass political involvement through voting, campaign work, political protests, and civil disobedience, among many others, is referred to as participation. Answer: True 61. The Greek word idiot originally described someone who did not participate in politics. Answer: True 62. Great Britain has more elections than any nation in the world, with more than 500,000 offices filled in any four-year election cycle. Answer: False 63. The Nineteenth Amendment (1920) provide women with the right to vote. Answer: True 64. Part of the National Voter Registration Act provides registration services through drivers license agencies. Answer: True 65. Voting is the only form of political behavior essential to a democracy. Answer: False 66. The U.S. Census Bureau reported that19 percent of all registered voters who did not vote because it was inconvenient. form of political activity. Answer: False 67. People who are politically inactive tend to be poorly educated, low income, and no white. Answer: True 68. Historically, American politics has been notable for the steady addition of barriers to democratic participation. Answer: False 69. Voters today must still satisfy varying property requirements. Answer: False 70. A poll tax is a fee one must pay in order to vote. Answer: True 71. The literacy test was a requirement that voting applicants demonstrate some ability to read and write. Answer: True 72. Poll taxes and literacy tests were devices used in some states to disenfranchise African American citizens. Answer: True 73. Prior to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, fewer than 10 percent of African Americans voted regularly. Answer: True 74. The U.S. Supreme Court erased many barriers to African American participation, striking down state poll tax laws in 1966. Answer: True 75. The Nineteenth Amendment was ratified in 1920. Answer: True 76. Residents of the District of Columbia were not allowed to vote in presidential elections until the ratification of the Fourteenth Amendment. Answer: False 77. Political activity costs nothing in terms of time and effort. Answer: False 78. Voter turnout expresses the percentage of the electorate that pays the poll tax. Answer: False 79. Registration laws in most states seem designed to depress election turnout rates. Answer: True 80. Many political observers define the health of a representative democracy by the degree to which its citizens participate in elections. Answer: True 81. The 2004 presidential election had one of the lowest rates of voter turnout. Answer: False 82. In many nations voting is compulsory. Answer: True 83. In the United States, citizens must change their registration or re-register each time they change addresses. Answer: True 84. In recent years, few states have taken steps to minimize the costs of registering and voting. Answer: False 85. In some states such as California, employers must give employees paid time off to vote. Answer: True 86. A study conducted by the League of Women Voters in 1996 suggests that many people do not vote because they hate America. Answer: False 87. Socioeconomic status is a crucial variable in determining the probability of voting. Answer: True 88. Men prefer to vote for Democratic candidates. Answer: False 89. Initiatives and referenda are examples of direct democracy. Answer: True 90. Initiatives are typically instigated by state governors. Answer: False 91. Voter turnout is generally higher for referenda elections than for general elections. Answer: False 92. Party identification is a deep-seated sense of loyalty to a particular political party. Answer: True 93. Personality has seldom played a major role in the individualistic culture of the United States. Answer: False 94. The Greek word idiot originally described someone who did not participate in politics. Answer: True 95. Ronald Reagan’s movie star charisma helped draw many traditionally Democratic voters into the Republican camp. Answer: True 96. The economy was an insignificant issue of the 1992 presidential campaign. Answer: False 97. Initiatives are policy proposals placed on the ballot for the voters to decide directly. Answer: True 98. Retrospective voting is only relevant to incumbents. Answer: True 99. Political campaigns rely heavily on paid staffers. Answer: False 100. Setting fire to police cars is a legitimate form of political protest. Answer: False 101. Legitimate civil disobedience does not involve violence. Answer: True 102. It is often difficult to determine the real motives of those who participate in political violence. Answer: True Essay Questions 103. Discuss the National Voter Registration Act. What brought it about and what was it intended to accomplish? Answer: The National Voter Registration Act (NVRA), also known as the "Motor Voter Act," was enacted in 1993 with the aim of increasing the number of registered voters in the United States. The Act was a response to low voter turnout and the perception that the registration process was overly complicated and restrictive, leading to disenfranchisement of eligible voters. Several key factors brought about the NVRA: 1. Complex Registration Processes: Many states had complex and restrictive voter registration processes, including specific deadlines, requirements, and locations for registration, which made it difficult for many people to register to vote. 2. Low Voter Turnout: The United States had a historically low voter turnout compared to other democratic nations, partly due to the difficulties associated with registering to vote. 3. Disenfranchisement of Minorities and Low-Income Individuals: There were concerns that the existing registration processes disproportionately affected minorities and low-income individuals, leading to their disenfranchisement. The NVRA was intended to accomplish several goals: 1. Simplify Voter Registration: The Act aimed to simplify the voter registration process by allowing eligible citizens to register to vote when applying for or renewing their driver's licenses or when applying for social services, among other methods. This made registration more accessible to a broader range of people. 2. Increase Voter Registration: By making registration more accessible, the NVRA sought to increase the number of registered voters, thereby potentially increasing voter turnout in elections. 3. Protect Voting Rights: The Act included provisions to protect voting rights, such as ensuring that eligible voters were not removed from voter rolls without proper notification and opportunities to correct errors. 4. Reduce Barriers to Voting: By streamlining the registration process and allowing for more convenient registration methods, the NVRA aimed to reduce barriers to voting, particularly for marginalized communities. Overall, the NVRA was intended to make the voter registration process more inclusive and accessible, ultimately leading to a more engaged and representative electorate. 104. Why does your text suggest that democracy simply cannot work without mass political involvement? Answer: Democracy relies on the participation of its citizens to function effectively. Without mass political involvement, democracy can struggle to represent the diverse interests and perspectives of the population. Here's why: 1. Representation: In a democracy, elected officials are meant to represent the interests and values of the people. When there is low political involvement, these officials may not accurately reflect the views of the majority, leading to decisions that do not align with the public's desires. 2. Accountability: Political involvement, such as voting and activism, helps hold elected officials accountable for their actions. Without active participation, there is less pressure on officials to act in the best interest of the public. 3. Legitimacy: Mass political involvement lends legitimacy to the democratic process. When a large portion of the population participates, it reinforces the idea that the government is by and for the people. 4. Policy Effectiveness: Policies are more likely to be effective and beneficial when they are informed by a wide range of perspectives. Mass political involvement ensures that policies reflect the needs and values of the entire population. 5. Social Cohesion: Political involvement can foster a sense of community and shared purpose among citizens. This can lead to greater social cohesion and a stronger democratic society. Overall, mass political involvement is essential for democracy to function as intended, ensuring that government is responsive, accountable, and representative of the people it serves. 105. Provide a brief history of voting in the United States, commenting on the difficulties for African Americans. Answer: The history of voting in the United States is marked by a gradual expansion of suffrage rights, but it has also been marred by systemic barriers that disproportionately affected African Americans. Here's a brief overview: 1. Early Voting Restrictions: In the early years of the United States, voting rights were limited to white male property owners. African Americans, whether free or enslaved, and women of all races were excluded from voting. 2. Reconstruction Era: Following the Civil War, the 15th Amendment was ratified in 1870, granting African American men the right to vote. However, many Southern states implemented poll taxes, literacy tests, and grandfather clauses to disenfranchise African Americans. 3. Jim Crow Era: During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Southern states further solidified discriminatory voting practices through measures such as white primaries, intimidation, and violence against African American voters. 4. Voting Rights Act of 1965: In response to widespread disenfranchisement, particularly in the South, the Voting Rights Act was passed. It aimed to overcome legal barriers at the state and local levels that prevented African Americans from voting. The Act banned literacy tests, provided for federal oversight of voter registration in areas with a history of discrimination, and authorized the use of federal examiners to register voters. 5. Continued Challenges: Despite the Voting Rights Act, challenges to African American voting rights persisted. Gerrymandering, voter ID laws, and other forms of voter suppression have been used to limit African American political participation. 6. Recent Developments: In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on voting rights, with efforts to expand access to the polls and protect against voter suppression. However, challenges remain, highlighting the ongoing struggle for full and equal voting rights for African Americans in the United States. Throughout American history, African Americans have faced significant barriers to exercising their right to vote, including legal restrictions, violence, and intimidation. While progress has been made, ensuring equal access to the ballot continues to be a critical issue in the fight for civil rights and racial justice. 106. Explain voter turnout in the United States. What possible factors could affect it? Answer: Voter turnout in the United States varies significantly depending on the type of election and other factors. In general, presidential elections tend to have higher turnout compared to midterm elections and local elections. Several factors can influence voter turnout: 1. Election Type: Turnout is typically higher in presidential elections compared to midterm and local elections. This is because presidential elections receive more media coverage and are seen as more consequential by voters. 2. Voter Registration: States with more restrictive voter registration processes tend to have lower turnout. Same-day registration and automatic voter registration have been shown to increase turnout. 3. Demographics: Certain demographic groups, such as older individuals and those with higher education levels, tend to have higher turnout rates. Factors such as age, education, income, and race can influence an individual's likelihood of voting. 4. Political Environment: Perceptions of the candidates, political parties, and the overall political climate can affect turnout. Controversial or highly competitive races may drive higher turnout. 5. Campaign Outreach: The effectiveness of voter outreach efforts, including door-to-door canvassing, phone banking, and advertising, can impact turnout. 6. Voting Policies: Laws and policies related to early voting, mail-in voting, and voter ID requirements can influence turnout. For example, states with more accessible voting options tend to have higher turnout. 7. Geographic Factors: Rural areas and regions with lower population density often have lower turnout compared to urban areas. 8. Weather: Inclement weather, particularly on Election Day, can reduce turnout as people may be less inclined to go out and vote. 9. Civic Engagement: Levels of civic engagement, including participation in community activities and trust in government, can impact turnout. Overall, voter turnout in the United States is influenced by a complex interplay of factors related to the electoral system, demographics, political environment, and individual behavior. Efforts to increase turnout often focus on addressing barriers to voting and engaging voters through targeted outreach and education campaigns. 107. Why do some people choose to participate while others do not? Answer: People's decisions to participate in political processes like voting can be influenced by a variety of factors, including: 1. Perceived Importance: Some individuals may feel that their vote does not make a difference in the outcome of an election, leading to apathy and low turnout. 2. Access to Information: Those who are well-informed about political issues and candidates may be more motivated to participate than those who are less informed. 3. Civic Duty: Some people feel a strong sense of civic duty and believe that voting is an important responsibility of citizenship. 4. Political Efficacy: Individuals who believe that their actions can influence political outcomes are more likely to participate than those who feel powerless. 5. Barriers to Voting: Factors such as voter registration requirements, long lines at polling places, and limited access to polling locations can deter people from voting. 6. Socioeconomic Factors: Income, education, and occupation can influence voter turnout, with higher-income and more educated individuals being more likely to vote. 7. Political Environment: The perceived fairness of the electoral process and trust in government can affect voter turnout. 8. Social Norms: Participation in political activities can be influenced by social norms within a community or social group. 9. Mobilization Efforts: Political parties, campaigns, and interest groups often engage in efforts to mobilize their supporters and increase turnout among their constituencies. 10. Personal Circumstances: Factors such as age, health, and mobility can impact an individual's ability or willingness to participate in political activities. Overall, participation in political processes is a complex behavior influenced by a combination of individual, social, and structural factors. Understanding these factors is important for designing strategies to increase voter turnout and civic engagement. 108. Discuss the youth vote in the United States. Answer: The youth vote, referring to the voting behavior of young people, is a significant and evolving aspect of American politics. While young people historically have had lower voter turnout compared to older age groups, they have the potential to shape elections and policy outcomes. Here are some key points about the youth vote in the United States: 1. Historically Low Turnout: Young people, particularly those aged 18-29, have traditionally had lower voter turnout rates compared to older age groups. Factors such as mobility, lack of political engagement, and registration barriers have contributed to this trend. 2. Increasing Engagement: In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in youth voter engagement, driven in part by social and political movements, as well as efforts to mobilize young voters through digital platforms and grassroots campaigns. 3. Impact on Elections: Despite lower turnout rates, the youth vote has the potential to sway elections, especially in close races or when young people are particularly motivated by specific issues or candidates. 4. Key Issues: Young voters tend to prioritize issues such as climate change, social justice, student debt, and healthcare. Candidates who address these issues are more likely to appeal to young voters. 5. Digital Influence: Social media and digital platforms play a significant role in engaging and mobilizing young voters. Political campaigns often use these tools to reach young people and encourage them to vote. 6. Barriers to Participation: Barriers such as voter registration deadlines, lack of accessible polling locations on college campuses, and misinformation can hinder young people from participating in the electoral process. 7. Diverse Voting Bloc: The youth vote is not monolithic and reflects the diversity of America. Young voters come from various racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, and ideological backgrounds, and their voting behavior is influenced by a range of factors. 8. Future Implications: As the largest and most diverse generation in U.S. history, the engagement of young voters is crucial for the future of American democracy. Increasing youth voter turnout and addressing barriers to participation are important goals for ensuring a more representative and inclusive political system. 109. What role does gender have on voting? Answer: Gender can play a role in voting behavior, influencing how individuals perceive political issues, candidates, and parties. Here are some ways gender can impact voting: 1. Gender Gap in Voting: Historically, women and men have shown differences in their voting patterns. Women tend to vote at slightly higher rates than men, and they often favor different candidates and parties. 2. Political Priorities: Research suggests that women and men may prioritize different issues when deciding how to vote. Women are often more concerned with social welfare, healthcare, education, and women's rights, while men may prioritize national security, the economy, and taxation. 3. Party Affiliation: Women have traditionally leaned towards the Democratic Party in the United States, while men have been more evenly split between the two major parties. This gender gap in party affiliation can influence voting choices. 4. Candidate Appeal: Gender can influence how voters perceive the qualifications, trustworthiness, and likability of political candidates. Some voters may be more inclined to support candidates of their own gender, while others may prioritize other factors. 5. Gender Stereotypes: Stereotypes and perceptions about gender roles can also impact voting behavior. For example, some voters may perceive male candidates as stronger on national security or economic issues, while female candidates may be seen as more compassionate or focused on social welfare. 6. Impact of Women's Issues: The presence of women's issues on the political agenda can also influence voting behavior. Candidates' positions on issues such as reproductive rights, equal pay, and family leave policies may resonate differently with women and men. Overall, while gender is just one of many factors that can influence voting behavior, it plays a significant role in shaping political attitudes and decisions. Understanding these dynamics can help political campaigns and policymakers better engage with and represent the diverse perspectives of voters. 110. Differentiate between an initiative and a referendum. How does their availability contribute to a direct democracy? Answer: Initiative and referendum are two forms of direct democracy that allow citizens to directly participate in the legislative process. Here's how they differ and contribute to direct democracy: 1. Initiative: An initiative is a process by which citizens can propose new laws or amendments to existing laws. If a certain number of signatures are gathered on a petition supporting the initiative, it is placed on the ballot for a vote by the general public. If approved, the proposed law or amendment goes into effect. 2. Referendum: A referendum is a process by which citizens can approve or reject laws that have been passed by the legislature. If a certain number of signatures are gathered on a petition calling for a referendum, the law is placed on the ballot for a vote by the general public. If the majority votes to approve the law, it goes into effect. If the majority votes to reject the law, it is repealed. The availability of initiatives and referendums contributes to direct democracy by giving citizens a direct voice in the laws that govern them. It allows citizens to bypass the legislature and enact or reject laws themselves. This can lead to a more responsive and accountable government, as elected officials are more likely to consider the views of the public when they know that citizens have the ability to directly influence laws through initiatives and referendums. 111. Discuss the role of party identification on the voting behavior of the American public. Answer: Party identification plays a significant role in shaping the voting behavior of the American public. It refers to the psychological attachment or loyalty that individuals feel towards a particular political party, which can influence their attitudes, beliefs, and voting decisions. Here's how party identification impacts voting behavior: 1. Voting Behavior: Party identification is a strong predictor of how people will vote. Individuals who identify with a particular party are more likely to vote for that party's candidates in elections. 2. Issue Positions: Party identification can influence how individuals perceive and prioritize political issues. Party members often adopt the positions and policies advocated by their party, shaping their stance on various issues. 3. Candidate Evaluation: Party identification can affect how people evaluate political candidates. Voters may view candidates from their own party more favorably and be more likely to support them, while viewing candidates from opposing parties more critically. 4. Political Participation: Party identification can influence an individual's level of political engagement. Party members are more likely to participate in political activities, such as voting, campaigning, and donating to political causes. 5. Voter Loyalty: Party identification tends to be stable over time, with many individuals remaining loyal to their party for long periods. This loyalty can influence voting behavior in multiple elections. 6. Cognitive Bias: Party identification can lead to cognitive biases, such as selective exposure to information that aligns with one's party affiliation and confirmation bias in interpreting political information. 7. Partisan Polarization: Party identification contributes to partisan polarization, where political parties and their supporters become increasingly divided along ideological lines, leading to more intense political conflicts. Overall, party identification is a key factor in understanding voting behavior in the United States. It shapes how individuals perceive politics, evaluate candidates, and participate in the political process, influencing the dynamics of American democracy. 112. Why does your text note that personality has always played a major role in the individualistic culture of the United States? Answer: Personality has always played a major role in the individualistic culture of the United States due to several factors: 1. Emphasis on Individualism: The United States has a cultural emphasis on individualism, where personal qualities and characteristics are highly valued. This cultural trait places importance on personal autonomy, self-expression, and the pursuit of individual goals and aspirations. 2. Celebrity Culture: American society has a strong celebrity culture, where individuals are often admired and celebrated for their unique talents, achievements, and personalities. This culture reinforces the idea that personality can lead to success and recognition. 3. Political Leadership: Throughout U.S. history, political leaders with strong personalities have often captured the public's attention and influenced the course of events. Leaders such as Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Ronald Reagan are examples of presidents who were known for their charismatic personalities. 4. Business and Entrepreneurship: In the business world, entrepreneurs and business leaders are often admired for their innovative ideas, boldness, and charisma. Personalities such as Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, and Elon Musk are celebrated for their unique approaches and strong personalities. 5. Media Influence: The media, including television, film, and social media, plays a significant role in shaping American perceptions of personality. Media personalities and influencers often have a large impact on public opinion and cultural trends. 6. Psychological Factors: From a psychological perspective, personality traits such as extroversion, charisma, and assertiveness are often associated with leadership and success in American culture. These traits are valued in many aspects of American society, including politics, business, and entertainment. Overall, the individualistic culture of the United States places a high value on personality traits and characteristics, shaping how individuals are perceived and influencing societal attitudes and behaviors. 113. What factors influence a citizen’s vote choice? Answer: A citizen's vote choice can be influenced by a variety of factors, including: 1. Party Affiliation: Many voters are loyal to a particular political party and are more likely to vote for candidates from that party. 2. Candidate Characteristics: Voters may be influenced by the personal characteristics of candidates, such as their charisma, experience, and perceived competence. 3. Political Ideology: Voters' political beliefs and values can influence their vote choice. They may vote for candidates whose policies align with their ideological preferences. 4. Campaign Issues: The issues emphasized during a campaign can influence voters' decisions. Candidates who focus on issues that are important to voters are more likely to win their support. 5. Media Influence: Media coverage can shape voters' perceptions of candidates and issues, influencing their vote choice. 6. Economic Conditions: The state of the economy can impact voters' decisions. During times of economic hardship, voters may be more likely to vote for change. 7. Social Identity: Factors such as race, gender, religion, and social class can influence how voters perceive candidates and issues, affecting their vote choice. 8. Campaign Messaging: The messages and rhetoric used by candidates can impact voters' perceptions and influence their vote choice. 9. Peer Influence: Friends, family members, and other social contacts can influence voters' decisions through discussions and endorsements. 10. Demographic Factors: Age, education, income, and other demographic factors can influence how individuals vote. 11. Local Factors: Local issues and candidates can also influence voters' decisions, especially in local elections. Overall, a combination of factors, including party affiliation, candidate characteristics, campaign issues, media influence, and personal beliefs, can influence a citizen's vote choice. 114. Comment on civil disobedience as a form of protest in the United States. In addition, discuss the activity of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. regarding its use. Answer: Civil disobedience is a form of protest in which individuals deliberately violate a law or rule as a form of nonviolent resistance. In the United States, civil disobedience has been used as a powerful tool for social and political change, particularly during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a prominent leader in the Civil Rights Movement and advocated for nonviolent civil disobedience as a strategy for achieving civil rights and racial equality. He believed that unjust laws should be challenged through peaceful protest and civil disobedience, rather than through violence. One of the most famous examples of Dr. King's use of civil disobedience was the Montgomery Bus Boycott in 1955. After Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger, Dr. King and other civil rights leaders organized a boycott of the city's bus system. The boycott lasted for over a year and eventually led to the desegregation of the city's buses. Dr. King also used civil disobedience to draw attention to other civil rights issues, such as voting rights, housing discrimination, and economic inequality. His commitment to nonviolent resistance inspired many others to join the Civil Rights Movement and helped bring about significant changes in American society. Overall, civil disobedience has been a powerful and influential form of protest in the United States, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s use of this tactic helped to bring about important advances in civil rights and social justice. 115. Compare congressional elections in presidential election years with off-year elections. Answer: Congressional elections in presidential election years and off-year elections (those that do not coincide with a presidential election) differ in several key ways: 1. Voter Turnout: Turnout is typically higher in presidential election years compared to off-year elections. This is because presidential elections receive more media attention and voter mobilization efforts, leading to greater overall participation. 2. Focus and Attention: In presidential election years, much of the focus is on the presidential race, with congressional elections often taking a back seat. In off-year elections, however, congressional races are often the main focus, which can lead to increased attention and scrutiny on these races. 3. Impact of the Presidency: The presence of a presidential election can impact congressional elections. For example, the popularity of the sitting president can influence voter turnout and support for congressional candidates from the same party. 4. Partisan Dynamics: Partisan dynamics can also differ between presidential election years and off-year elections. For example, the president's party tends to lose seats in Congress during off-year elections, a phenomenon known as the "midterm effect." 5. Campaign Strategies: Campaign strategies and tactics may vary between presidential election years and off-year elections. In presidential election years, campaigns may focus more on national issues and aligning with the presidential candidate's platform, while in off-year elections, campaigns may be more localized and focused on specific issues relevant to the district or state. 6. Policy Impact: The outcome of congressional elections can have different policy implications depending on whether they occur in a presidential election year or an off-year election. For example, a shift in control of Congress during a presidential election year can have significant implications for the president's ability to enact their agenda. Overall, while congressional elections in presidential election years and off-year elections share some similarities, such as their importance in shaping the makeup of Congress, they also differ in terms of voter turnout, focus and attention, partisan dynamics, campaign strategies, and policy impact. 116. Discuss the Electoral College in terms of the framers intention and indicate how the Electoral College works today. Answer: The Electoral College was established by the framers of the United States Constitution as a compromise between electing the President by a vote in Congress and by a popular vote of qualified citizens. The framers were concerned about balancing the interests of smaller and larger states, as well as the role of the federal government versus state governments in the election process. The original intention of the Electoral College was to have a group of electors chosen by each state who would then vote for the President. Each state's number of electors is equal to its total number of Senators and Representatives in Congress. This system was designed to give smaller states a voice in the presidential election process, as each state, regardless of size, would have at least three electoral votes (equal to their two Senators and at least one Representative). Today, the Electoral College works as follows: 1. Selection of Electors: Each state chooses a slate of electors, typically selected by the political parties, who pledge to vote for the party's candidate if elected. 2. Electoral Votes: The total number of electoral votes is 538, with 270 needed to win the presidency. This total is equal to the 435 Representatives, 100 Senators, and 3 electors from the District of Columbia. 3. Winner-Takes-All: Except for Maine and Nebraska, which allocate their electoral votes based on the winner of each congressional district and then award two additional electoral votes to the statewide winner, states use a winner-takes-all system, meaning the candidate who wins the popular vote in a state receives all of its electoral votes. 4. Meeting of Electors: Electors meet in their respective states in December after the election to cast their votes for President and Vice President. 5. Counting of Electoral Votes: The electoral votes are counted in a joint session of Congress in January, and the candidate who receives a majority of electoral votes (270 or more) is declared the winner. Critics of the Electoral College argue that it is outdated and can lead to the election of a President who did not win the popular vote, as was the case in the 2000 and 2016 elections. Proponents argue that it helps to balance the interests of smaller and larger states and preserves the federal nature of the United States. 117. Discuss how presidential elections are interpreted. Answer: Presidential elections in the United States are interpreted in a variety of ways, with different groups and individuals offering their own analyses and perspectives. Here are some common ways in which presidential elections are interpreted: 1. Electoral College Analysis: One of the primary ways in which presidential elections are interpreted is through an analysis of the Electoral College results. This includes looking at the states won by each candidate, the margins of victory, and the overall distribution of electoral votes. 2. Popular Vote Analysis: While the winner of the Electoral College ultimately determines the outcome of the election, the popular vote is also analyzed to understand the overall level of support for each candidate nationwide. Discrepancies between the popular vote and the Electoral College outcome, such as in the 2000 and 2016 elections, are often subject to intense scrutiny and debate. 3. Demographic Analysis: Presidential elections are often analyzed in terms of demographics, such as race, gender, age, and education level. Understanding how different demographic groups voted can provide insights into the shifting political landscape and voter preferences. 4. Policy Mandate: The outcome of a presidential election is often interpreted as a mandate for the winning candidate's policy agenda. This can influence the president's ability to govern and enact their legislative priorities. 5. Political Strategy: Analysts also examine the political strategies employed by each candidate during the campaign. This includes their messaging, advertising, campaign events, and overall campaign strategy. 6. Historical Context: Presidential elections are often interpreted in the context of historical trends and patterns. Analysts may compare the current election to past elections to identify similarities, differences, and potential implications for the future. 7. International Impact: The outcome of a U.S. presidential election can have significant implications for the international community. Analysts may examine how other countries are likely to respond to the election results and how it may impact international relations. Overall, the interpretation of presidential elections is a complex and multifaceted process, involving analysis of electoral results, demographics, policy implications, political strategy, historical context, and international impact. Different analysts and observers may offer varying interpretations based on their perspectives and objectives. 118. What role does money play in elections? Answer: Money plays a significant role in elections in the United States and can impact various aspects of the electoral process. Here are some key ways in which money influences elections: 1. Campaign Financing: Money is used to fund campaign activities, including advertising, travel, staff salaries, and events. Candidates rely on fundraising to finance their campaigns and reach out to voters. 2. Media Influence: Money can be used to buy advertising space in traditional media (such as television, radio, and newspapers) and digital media (such as social media and online ads). Candidates with more money can afford to run more ads and reach a larger audience. 3. Campaign Messaging: Money can be used to craft and disseminate campaign messages. Candidates can use funds to conduct research, develop campaign materials, and hire consultants to help shape their messaging. 4. Campaign Infrastructure: Money is used to build and maintain campaign infrastructure, including field offices, phone banks, and voter outreach efforts. This infrastructure is crucial for mobilizing supporters and getting out the vote on Election Day. 5. Competitive Advantage: Candidates with more money have a competitive advantage over their opponents. They can afford to run more extensive and sophisticated campaigns, which can help them attract more voters and win elections. 6. Access and Influence: Money can provide candidates with access to influential individuals and organizations, including donors, interest groups, and political action committees (PACs). This access can help candidates raise more money and gain support for their campaigns. 7. Campaign Finance Laws: The role of money in elections is regulated by campaign finance laws, which set limits on how much money individuals and organizations can contribute to candidates and political parties. These laws are intended to prevent corruption and ensure transparency in the electoral process. Overall, money plays a crucial role in elections by influencing campaign financing, media coverage, messaging, infrastructure, competitiveness, access, and influence. The role of money in elections is a subject of ongoing debate, with proponents arguing that it is necessary for candidates to effectively communicate with voters and opponents raising concerns about the influence of money in politics. 119. Discuss the influence of campaign finance reform on the electoral system. Answer: Campaign finance reform has been a topic of debate in the United States for many years, with proponents arguing that it is necessary to reduce the influence of money in politics and ensure fair and transparent elections. Here are some ways in which campaign finance reform can influence the electoral system: 1. Reduced Influence of Money: Campaign finance reform can help reduce the influence of wealthy individuals, corporations, and special interest groups in the electoral process. By placing limits on campaign contributions and expenditures, reform measures aim to prevent candidates from becoming overly reliant on big donors and outside interests. 2. Increased Transparency: Campaign finance reform can improve transparency in the electoral system by requiring candidates and political committees to disclose their donors and expenditures. This transparency can help voters make more informed decisions and hold candidates accountable for their fundraising activities. 3. Leveling the Playing Field: Campaign finance reform can help level the playing field for candidates by limiting the amount of money that can be spent on campaigns. This can make it easier for less wealthy candidates to compete against incumbents and well-funded opponents. 4. Encouraging Small Donor Participation: Some campaign finance reform measures include provisions to encourage small donor participation, such as matching funds or tax credits for small contributions. This can help reduce candidates' reliance on large donors and increase the diversity of their donor bases. 5. Strengthening Democracy: Proponents argue that campaign finance reform is essential for strengthening democracy and ensuring that elected officials are accountable to the public rather than to wealthy donors. By reducing the influence of money in politics, reform measures aim to promote a more equitable and responsive electoral system. Overall, campaign finance reform can have a significant impact on the electoral system by reducing the influence of money, increasing transparency, leveling the playing field for candidates, encouraging small donor participation, and strengthening democracy. However, the effectiveness of reform measures depends on their implementation and enforcement, as well as the broader political and legal context in which they are enacted. 120. Explain how federal matching funds work. Answer: Federal matching funds are a form of public financing for presidential primary candidates in the United States. The system is designed to encourage candidates to seek small contributions from individual donors rather than relying on large contributions from wealthy donors or personal funds. Here's how federal matching funds work: 1. Qualifying for Matching Funds: To qualify for federal matching funds, candidates must meet certain eligibility criteria, including agreeing to limit their campaign spending and only accepting contributions from individuals. They must also demonstrate broad-based public support by raising a threshold amount of money in small contributions from at least 20 different states. 2. Matching Funds Ratio: Once a candidate qualifies for federal matching funds, the federal government matches the contributions they receive from individual donors at a specified ratio. For most candidates, the matching ratio is 1:1, meaning that for every dollar they raise in eligible contributions, they receive an additional dollar in matching funds. 3. Limits on Matching Funds: There are limits on the amount of matching funds a candidate can receive. For example, in the 2020 election cycle, the maximum amount of matching funds a candidate could receive was $250 for each contribution from an individual donor. 4. Timing of Matching Funds: Matching funds are distributed periodically throughout the primary election season. Candidates can request matching funds from the Federal Election Commission (FEC) based on the contributions they have received up to that point. 5. Spending Limits: Candidates who accept federal matching funds are subject to spending limits. These limits are intended to level the playing field between candidates and prevent excessive spending. 6. Repayment Requirement: Candidates who receive federal matching funds are required to repay any funds they receive in excess of the amount they are entitled to based on their fundraising efforts. This ensures that candidates do not receive more in matching funds than they are eligible for. Overall, federal matching funds are intended to promote transparency, accountability, and broad-based public support in presidential primary campaigns by encouraging candidates to seek small contributions from individual donors. Test Bank for Approaching Democracy Larry A Berman, Bruce Allen Murphy 9780205903825
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