Global Citizenship

Federalism

A government system where power is shared across different levels: federal (biggest power), state (next level), and local (smallest level).

Primary Election

An election within a political party to choose which candidate will represent the party in the main election.

Incumbent

necessary for somebody

Polling

Asking people their opinions or who they will vote for on a certain issue or candidate.

Gerrymandering

Changing the boundaries of a voting district to help one political party or group gain an advantage.

Branches of Government

The three parts of government: Executive (enforces laws), Legislative (makes laws), and Judicial (interprets laws).

Civics

The study of citizens' rights and responsibilities in society.

Direct Democracy

A system where citizens vote directly on laws and policies rather than electing representatives to decide.

Representative Democracy

A system where citizens elect leaders who make decisions and laws on their behalf.

Referendum

A vote where people decide directly on a specific question or issue.

Amendment

A change or addition to the U.S. Constitution.

Executive Orders

Instructions given by the President that tell parts of the federal government how to operate.

Two-Party System

A political system dominated by two main parties, like the Democrats and Republicans in the U.S.

Platform

The set of beliefs and policies a political party supports on important issues.

Bipartisanship

When two political parties work together to achieve common goals.

Coalition

An alliance between multiple political parties to work together, usually in systems with more than two parties.