Elections and Voting Behavior

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to elections and voting behavior in American government, focusing on indirect democracy, voting eligibility, electoral processes, and influencing factors.

Indirect Democracy

A system of government where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.

Electoral Composition

The makeup of the electorate, including who is eligible to vote.

Ballot Access

The rules and regulations that determine how candidates and voters can participate in elections.

Electoral Districts

Geographical locations that determine where an individual votes and represents a specific population.

Turnout Rate

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

Secret Ballot

A voting method in which a voter's choice is confidential.

Gerrymandering

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor a particular political party.

Plurality Rule

An electoral system in which the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of whether they achieve a majority.

Majority Rule

An electoral system in which a candidate must receive more than 50% of the votes to win.

Proportional Rule

An electoral system that allocates seats based on the percentage of votes received.

Campaign Finance

The funds raised and spent to promote candidates and influence the outcome of elections.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

A private group that raises and distributes funds for political campaigns.

Super PACs

Independent expenditure-only committees that can raise unlimited amounts of money from corporations, unions, and individuals to influence elections.

Voter ID

Identification requirements that some states impose on voters, which can affect turnout.

Same-Day Registration

The ability to register to vote on the same day as an election.

Ballot Design

The layout and structure of a ballot that can influence voter choices and outcomes.