Political Participation

political participation

The various ways in which individuals take part in politics and government, including voting, protesting, and engaging in civic activities.

political efficacy

The belief that one's political participation makes a difference and that the government will respond to citizens.

suffrage

The right to vote in political elections.

15th Amendment

Prohibits the federal and state governments from denying a citizen the right to vote based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude.

19th Amendment

Grants women the right to vote.

24th Amendment

Prohibits the use of poll taxes in federal elections.

26th Amendment

Lowers the voting age to 18 years.

voter turnout

The percentage of eligible voters who actually cast ballots in an election.

retrospective voting

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

prospective voting

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

party-line voting

Voting for candidates from one political party for all public offices at the same level of government.

purpose of political parties

To organize voters, develop policies, and win elections to influence government.

critical election

An election that signals a party realignment through voter polarization around new issues.

party realignment

The displacement of the majority party by the minority party, usually during a critical election period.

dealignment

A trend where a large portion of the electorate abandons its previous partisan affiliation without developing a new one.

role of interest groups

To influence public policy and decision-making to benefit their members or causes.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

An organization that raises money privately to influence elections or legislation, especially at the federal level.

Citizens United v. FEC (2010)

The Supreme Court decision that allowed corporations and unions to spend unlimited amounts on political campaigns, leading to the rise of Super PACs.

role of the media in politics

To inform the public, act as a watchdog, and shape public opinion.

"horse-race" journalism

Media coverage that focuses on polling data and public perception instead of candidate policy.

Electoral College

A body of electors established by the United States Constitution, which formally elects the president and vice president.

primary election

An election to select candidates to run for public office.

caucus

A meeting of party members to select delegates backing one or another primary candidate.

open primary

A primary election where voters are not required to declare party affiliation.

closed primary

A primary election where only registered party members can vote.