Slides

What role do frequent and fair elections play in a democracy?

They ensure government accountability and public involvement.

Which amendments expanded the U.S. electorate?

15th, 19th, and 26th amendments.

How do elections hold policymakers accountable?

They reflect public opinion and actions.

What common myth about elections is debunked by research?

Voter fraud, with research showing negligible cases.

What do campaigns primarily inform voters about?

Policy matters.

Who are the main contenders in the 2024 Presidential Election?

Trump and Harris.

What is the media's role in a democracy?

Acts as a watchdog and holds officials accountable.

How did 19th-century newspapers operate?

They were party-run.

What modern news prioritizes for ratings?

Sensationalism.

What creates misinformation in media?

Partisan media and cognitive biases.

What is the 'Legal Model' in judicial decision making?

Based on text and precedent.

What is the 'Attitudinal Model' in the courts?

Driven by policy preferences.

What influences the Supreme Court's case discussions and opinion assignments?

Chief Justice.

What is Bureaucracy defined by?

Hierarchical structure, division of labor, and specialization.

What strategies can be used for downsizing bureaucracy?

Termination, devolution, and privatization.

What are the expressed powers of the presidency?

Veto, treaties, pardons, military commands.

What factors increase presidential power?

High public approval, unified government, and responses to crises.

What is a significant challenge in Congress?

Gridlock from party polarization.

What is required to pass most legislation in the Senate?

A 60-vote cloture due to filibuster.

What representation type involves legislators reflecting constituents' desires?

Delegate.

What is the impact of political polarization?

Increased ideological divides since the Civil Rights Movement.

What are the main types of media in a democracy?

Traditional media, social media, and alternative media.

What role does social media play in modern democracy?

Facilitates direct communication between politicians and voters, amplifies voices.

What is voter turnout?

The percentage of eligible voters who participate in elections.

What factors influence voter turnout?

Socioeconomic status, education level, and registration ease.

What is gerrymandering?

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries for political advantage.

How does public opinion affect policy making?

Policymakers consider public sentiment to gain support and legitimacy.

What are the consequences of media consolidation?

Reduced diversity of viewpoints and increased misinformation.

What is the purpose of political lobbying?

To influence policymakers and legislative decisions.

How can citizens engage in politics aside from voting?

Participating in protests, contacting representatives, and joining political groups.

What is the role of the Electoral College?

To formally elect the President and Vice President of the United States.