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Public opinion
The distribution of individual preferences or evaluations of a given issue, candidate, or institution within a specific population.
Random sample
In this type of sample, every individual has unknown and random chance of being selected.
Manifest opinion
A widely shared and consciously held view, like support for homeland security.
Political socialization
The process – most notably in families and schools – by which we develop our political attitudes, values, and beliefs.
Attentive public
Those citizens who follow public affairs carefully.
Voter registration
System designed to reduce voter fraud by limiting voting to those who have established eligibility to vote by submitting the proper documents.
Australian ballot
A secret ballot printed by the state.
General election
Elections in which voters elect officeholders.
Primary election
Elections in which voters determine party nominees.
Presidential election
Elections held in years when the president is on the ballot.
Midterm election
Elections held midway between presidential elections.
Turnout
The proportion of the voting age public that votes, often defined as the number of registered voters that vote.
Party identification
An informal and subjective affiliation with a political party that most people acquire in childhood.
Candidate appeal
How voters feel about a candidate’s background, personality, leadership ability, and other personal qualities.
Prospective issue voting
Voting based on what a candidate pledges to do in the future about an issue if elected.
