Political Participation and Elections

These flashcards cover key concepts related to political participation and the electoral system in the United States.

15th Amendment

Prohibits the denial of the right to vote based on race.

17th Amendment

Establishes the direct election of U.S. senators.

19th Amendment

Grants women the right to vote.

24th Amendment

Abolishes poll taxes in federal elections.

Poll Tax

A fee required to be paid before voting, often used to restrict voting by low-income groups.

26th Amendment

Lowers the voting age to 18.

Rational Choice Voting

Voting based on perceived individual interests.

Retrospective Voting

Voting based on the past performance of a candidate or party.

Prospective Voting

Voting based on predictions of future performance by a candidate.

Party Line Voting

Voting exclusively for candidates of one political party on the ballot.

Political Efficacy

Belief that one's vote has an impact and can influence political outcomes.

Linkage Institutions

Channels that connect individuals to policymakers, such as political parties and interest groups.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

An organization that raises money to elect or defeat candidates.

Interest Groups

Organizations that seek to influence public policy in their favor.

Super PAC

A type of independent-expenditure-only committee that can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money.

Electoral College

A body of electors established by the Constitution, responsible for electing the president.

Incumbency Advantage

The advantages that current officeholders have over challengers during elections.

Bully Pulpit

A platform for politicians to promote their agendas and influence public opinion.

Franchise/Suffrage

The right to vote in political elections.

Demographic Characteristics

Measurable traits of a population such as age, race, income, and education.

Voter Turnout

The percentage of eligible voters who cast a ballot during an election.

Absentee Ballot

A ballot submitted by a voter who is unable to physically attend the polling place.

Swing States/Battleground States

States where both major parties have similar levels of support among voters.

Grassroots Lobbying

Encouraging the public to contact elected officials to support a specific policy.

Amicus Curiae Brief

A document filed by a non-litigant to advise the court on a legal issue.