Unit 5: Citizen Participation AP Government

These flashcards cover crucial vocabulary and concepts related to citizen participation and elections in AP Government.

Microtargeting

The practice of using internet access to tailor campaign messages to specific voters.

Political Polarization

The tendency of voters to favor party-based voting due to increasing ideological differences between parties.

Third-Party Candidates

Candidates who are not from the two major parties and can act as 'spoilers' in elections.

Spoiler Effect

When a third-party candidate draws votes away from a major party candidate, potentially influencing the election outcome.

Lobbyists

Individuals who represent interest groups and advocate for specific legislation.

Prospective Voting

A voting strategy based on a candidate's future promises and plans.

Retrospective Voting

A voting strategy based on a candidate's past performance.

Rational-Choice Voting

A voting strategy based on the perceived self-interest and public interest of a voter.

Party-Line Voting

Voting for candidates solely based on party affiliation.

Party Platform

A set of goals and policy positions adopted by a political party.

Linkage Institution

Organizations that connect citizens to the government, such as political parties and interest groups.

Partisanship

Strong allegiance to a political party, often leading to political gridlock.

Election of 1800

The first peaceful transfer of power in U.S. history; led to the 12th Amendment.

Election of 1824

Marked the end of the Era of Good Feelings, with allegations of a 'corrupt bargain'.

Election of 1860

Lincoln's victory that led to the Civil War and a significant realignment of political parties.

Election of 1912

A split in the Republican Party that allowed a Democrat to win with a minority of the popular vote.

Election of 1932

FDR's landslide victory that redefined the role of the federal government.

Election of 1968

Marked Nixon's victory amid social unrest and the end of the New Deal Coalition.

Citizens United v. FEC (2010)

Supreme Court ruling that allowed unlimited political spending by corporations under the 1st Amendment.

Regular PAC

Political Action Committee that can donate to candidates but faces contribution limits.

Super PAC

Political Action Committee that can raise unlimited funds but cannot coordinate with candidates.

New York Times v. United States (1971)

Supreme Court ruling that reinforced press freedoms by limiting prior restraint.

Prior Restraint

Government action that prevents publication or speech; typically unconstitutional.

Electoral College

A body that formally elects the President and Vice President of the United States.

Arguments FOR the Electoral College

Preserves federalism, encourages broad coalitions, and protects smaller states.

Arguments AGAINST the Electoral College

Winner can lose the popular vote; campaigns focus only on swing states.

Federalist No. 70

Hamilton's essay advocating for a single, energetic executive.

Federalist No. 51

Madison's essay on the need for checks and balances in government.

Article I of the U.S. Constitution

Establishes Congress, outlining its structure and powers.

Article II of the U.S. Constitution

Establishes the Presidency and outlines its powers and processes.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Allows Congress to make laws necessary for carrying out its enumerated powers.

12th Amendment

Reformed the Electoral College by requiring separate ballots for president and vice president.