Ap gov chapter 10

Primary and caucus process

The method by which candidates are nominated for presidential elections in the U.S.

Momentum or the bandwagon effect

The phenomenon where candidates gain popularity and support after winning early contests.

Retrospective Voting

Voting based on the evaluation of the incumbent's past performance.

Prospective Voting

Voting based on predictions of how a candidate will perform in the future.

Gerrymandering

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor one party over another.

Electoral College

The mechanism established by the Constitution for the indirect election of the president and vice president of the U.S.

Incumbency Advantages

Benefits that current officeholders have over challengers during elections.

Surge & Decline

The trend where a political party experiences a sudden support surge, often followed by a decline.

Riding the Coattails

When candidates benefit from the popularity of a more prominent candidate at the same election.

Negative attack ads

Advertisements that criticize opponents and highlight their perceived weaknesses.

Total Electoral Votes

The total number of votes in the Electoral College, which is 538.

Majority needed to win Presidency

It takes at least 270 electoral votes to win the presidency.

House of Representatives Role in Presidential Elections

If no candidate receives at least 270 electoral votes, the House of Representatives chooses the President.

Possible Reforms to the Electoral College

Changes proposed to improve the fairness or functionality of the Electoral College system.

Competitiveness in Presidential Races vs. Congressional Races

Presidential races are more competitive, typically yielding winners with less than 55% of the vote, while Congressional races often yield winners with over 60%.

Judging the Candidates’ Character

Evaluating candidates based on personal traits and integrity, influencing voting decisions.