american gov outline

Election integrity

Ensures fair processes, secure voting technologies, data privacy, and fraud prevention in elections.

Voting Rights Act of 1965

Outlawed racial discrimination in voting practices in the United States.

Federal Election Commission

Regulates campaign donations and enforces spending limits.

Electoral College

A body of electors that formally selects the president of the United States.

Voter registration

The process by which eligible citizens sign up to vote in elections.

Help America Vote Act (2002)

Legislation that ensures accurate voter rolls and proper voter notifications.

Direct democracy

A system allowing citizens to propose or vote on legislation and government actions directly.

National Voter Registration Act (1993)

Requires states to offer voter registration alongside driver's license services.

Political campaigns

Organized efforts by candidates to influence voters and win elections.

Straw poll

An informal survey of public opinion to gauge the general views of a large group.

Public opinion

The collective preferences and attitudes of the citizens regarding political issues or government actions.

Voter turnout

The percentage of eligible voters who participate in an election.

Interest group

A group of individuals who share common objectives and actively seek to influence government policy.

Polling places

Locations where voters go to cast their ballots on Election Day.

Grandfather clauses

Laws permitting individuals to bypass literacy tests and other requirements if their ancestors had the right to vote before a certain date.

Ballot initiatives

Laws or amendments proposed by voters that are placed on the ballot for public vote.

Referendum

A procedure allowing voters to reject or approve legislation passed by the government.

Recall election

A special election through which voters can remove an elected official from office.