American Political Participation, Campaigns, and Elections

These flashcards cover key concepts related to American Political Participation, Campaigns, and Elections as discussed in the lecture notes.

What is the Invisible Primary in the election timeline?

A phase where would-be candidates test their support and organizational capacity for party nomination without an actual election.

What is a Closed Primary?

A primary election where only party affiliates, declared in advance, can vote in their party’s primary.

What happens during a Party Convention?

The party meets to choose the party nominee and draft the party platform that outlines its goals.

When is the General Election held?

On the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November.

What is Vote Certification?

The formal process where localities and states certify the validity of the votes cast in an election.

What constitutes the Electoral College?

A body of electors chosen to cast votes on behalf of voters for selecting the president and vice president.

What are the three types of money in campaign fundraising?

Hard money, soft money, and dark money.

What is Hard Money in the context of campaign donations?

Money that is donated or spent to aid a candidate or campaign with disclosure of donors and contribution limits.

What distinguishes Dark Money from other types of campaign fundraising?

It is money spent to aid a candidate or campaign where the donors are not disclosed.

What is traditional political participation?

Actions like voting, writing to officials, attending political meetings, and donating to campaigns.

What defines non-traditional political participation?

Actions that occur outside established avenues, such as protests, civil disobedience, or strikes.

What is one reason why more educated individuals participate more in politics?

Increased civic skills and access to politically active social networks.

What are the gaps in political participation based on income?

Wealthier individuals participate more because they can pay costs associated with participation.

How does age impact political participation?

Older voters tend to participate more due to greater political experience and stability in their lives.

What are some barriers affecting racial and ethnic participation in politics?

Factors like voter suppression and disenfranchisement can impact the participation of different racial and ethnic groups.

What factors influence Vote Choice in elections?

Partisan loyalty, issue and policy preferences, and candidate characteristics.

What are some criticisms of the Electoral College?

Questions about its effectiveness in serving its intended purpose and whether it has negative consequences that outweigh benefits.