Political Participation and Voting Processes

A set of flashcards to help with reviewing key concepts related to political participation, voting processes, and electoral mechanisms.

What factors influence political participation?

Political ideology, efficacy, structural barriers, and demographics.

What are linkage institutions?

Entities that enable voters to connect with policy-making institutions, such as interest groups, political parties, and media.

What is the role of interest groups in political participation?

They coordinate efforts around policy goals, endorse candidates, and mobilize voters.

What is voter turnout?

The portion of the voting-age public that casts a ballot in elections.

What is political efficacy?

A citizen's belief that they can influence political affairs.

Which amendments expanded voting rights in the U.S.?

15th Amendment (race), 19th Amendment (sex), and 26th Amendment (age).

What does the Voting Rights Act of 1965 prohibit?

Racial discrimination in voting practices.

What is the Motor Voter Act?

It requires states to provide opportunities for individuals to register to vote through various government agencies.

What is the effect of voter ID laws?

They can restrict or facilitate voter access depending on the requirements set by states.

Which states allow same-day voter registration?

Nineteen states and Washington D.C.

What are 'dark money' groups?

501(c) organizations that can spend unlimited amounts of money in political campaigns without disclosing their donors.

What is the purpose of the Electoral College?

To balance the views of the common person with the interests of the states in presidential elections.

What did Citizens United v. FEC (2010) rule?

It ruled that political spending by corporations and unions is a form of protected free speech.

What is a Super PAC?

An independent expenditure-only committee that can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money to advocate for a candidate.

What is retrospective voting?

Voting based on evaluations of a candidate's past actions or performance.

What is party-line voting?

Voting based solely on party affiliation rather than individual candidate preferences.

Why do incumbents have an advantage in elections?

Due to recognition, fundraising ability, and established support networks.

What are the effects of campaign finance laws?

They regulate contributions to candidates and political parties to prevent corruption.

What are 'faithless electors'?

Electors who do not vote according to the popular vote in their state.

What is the rationale behind redistricting?

To reflect changes in population and ensure fair representation in Congress.

What influences voter turnout?

Factors include age, education, race, income, and national or local policies.