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How have changes in technology influenced political communication and behavior?
Technology allows faster and more direct communication (e.g., social media, emails). Politicians use data to target voters, mobilize support, and shape public opinion. However, it also spreads misinformation and intensifies polarization.
Why do levels of participation and influence in politics vary?
- Socioeconomic status, education, voter laws, and access to resources affect participation. Young, low-income, and minority voters often face more barriers.
what was case citizens United V Fec
was about whether corporations or unions can spend unlimited money to support candidates.
what did they decide in citizens united V fec
court decided under 1st amendment they can spend as much as they want as long as they don’t give the money directly to the candidates
what did citizens united V fec create
it created super PACS that raise and spend money
problem with citizens united V fec
big money now has more influence in elections and critics sy it gives the wealthy too much power in politics while supporters argue it protects free speech
How effective are the various methods of political participation in shaping public policies?
- Voting directly impacts elections. Lobbying and protests can be more influential on specific policies, while petitions raise awareness but have less direct impact.
15th amendment
Gave African American men the right to vote.
17th amendment
Allowed direct election of Senators.
19th amendment
Granted women voting rights.
24th amendment
banned poll taxes
26th amendment
lowered voting age to 18
rational choice voting model
voting based on personal benefit
retrospective voting model
voting based on past performance
prospective voting model
voting based on future promises
party-line voting model
voting consistently with ones political party
How do state Voter Registration and Voter ID laws influence voter turnout rates?
- Strict laws lower turnout, especially for minorities. Simplified registration increases participation.
Compare the voter turnout rates in midterm elections and presidential elections.
- Presidential Elections: ~60% turnout. - Midterm Elections: ~40% turnout due to lower visibility and perceived stakes.
What is a linkage institution? Examples?
- Organizations connecting citizens to government, like political parties, media, interest groups, and elections.
What roles do political parties play in American government and politics?
- They recruit candidates, organize elections, create platforms, and mobilize voters.
How are the Democratic and Republican party platforms similar?
Focus on economic growth and national security.
How are the Democratic and Republican party platforms Different?
Democrats emphasize social welfare; Republicans prioritize limited government and tax cuts.
What is a candidate-centered campaign?
- Campaigns focus on the individual, not their party, emphasizing personality, image, and direct voter outreach.
How do parties use communication technology, social media, and voter-data management systems?
- They use technology for personalized outreach, fundraising, and mobilizing voters, employing social media to engage specific demographics.
What barriers or obstacles hurt third-party and independent candidates?
- Lack of funding, minimal media coverage, ballot access challenges, and the winner-take-all system.
What role do interest groups play in American politics?
- They influence policy through lobbying, grassroots campaigns, and electioneering.
iron triangle
Stable, mutually beneficial relationships between Congress, bureaucracy, and interest groups.
issue network
Fluid alliances around specific policy issues.
PACS
Fund candidates.
Lobbyists
Directly influence policymakers.
grassroots
Mobilize public opinion.
- Litigation:
Challenge laws in court.
What is the free-rider problem with interest groups?
- People benefit from group actions without actively participating, making it harder for groups to sustain membership and funding.
How are political parties and interest groups similar?
Mobilize supporters and influence policy.
How are political parties and interest groups Different?
Political parties aim to win elections, while interest groups focus on specific issues.
What advantages do incumbents have in elections?
- Incumbents benefit from name recognition, established networks, fundraising, and past performance.
Primary
Statewide voting process
- Open Primary:
All voters can participate.
- Closed Primary:
Only party members can vote.
- Caucus:
Local meetings where party members discuss and vote.
Why are Iowa and New Hampshire so important in the presidential election process?
- As early contests, they set momentum and influence media coverage and campaign funding.
What is the winner-take-all system? Why is it controversial?
- The candidate with the most votes in a state wins all its electoral votes. It limits third-party influence and can result in a president who loses the popular vote.
What is a critical/realigning election?
- Elections that shift political coalitions and party dominance (e.g., 1932 New Deal Coalition).
Why are campaign costs increasing? How does this influence elections?
- Costs rise due to media, advertising, and technology. This favors wealthy candidates and donors, limiting access for others.
What did the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA) of 2002 do?
- Limited soft money and required transparency in political ads.
What does the Federal Election Commission (FEC) do?
- Regulates campaign finance and enforces election laws.
How has the Citizens United v. FEC (2010) decision impacted elections?
- Allowed unlimited corporate and union spending, increasing the influence of Super PACs in elections.
What is horse-race journalism? What effect does it have on citizens?
- Focuses on poll standings and campaign drama rather than issues. It can misinform voters and prioritize spectacle over substance.