exam #2- poli sci (take 2)

Gridlock (define)

When government gets stuck and no laws pass because parties disagree

responsible party theory (define)

Idea that parties should offer clear choices and be accountable

polarization (define)

When political parties become more ideologically divided

constituency (define)

The people a politician represents

Incumbency advantage

The benefit current officeholders have in elections

casework

Helping individual constituents solve problems with the government

pork barrel spending

Government spending for local projects to win support

gerrymandering

drawing district lines to benefit a political party

Party Sorting

People aligning with the party that matches their beliefs

divided government

When different parties control different branches

what is the main cause of gridlock?

Political disagreement between branches/parties

what does the responsible party theory argue?

Parties should present clear policies and be held accountable

why do incumbents usually win reelection?

Name recognition + resources + casework

what does polarization do?

Less compromise and more gridlock

what is the purpose of casework?

To help constituents directly

what does gerrymandering effect most?

election outcome

what happens in divided government?

lawmaking becomes harder

what is a key criticism of congress?

too much conflict and not enough action.