Unit 5: AP US Gov & Politics

Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA) of 1971

Regulates campaign financing, including contributions and expenditures.

Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA) of 2002

Aims to regulate the financing of political campaigns.

Rise of social media

Influences how people access and engage with political information.

Voter apathy

A reason for low voter turnout, reflecting disillusionment with the political process.

Constitution and political parties

The Constitution indirectly acknowledges political parties through provisions like the First Amendment's protections for freedom of speech and association.

Critical elections

Result in significant and lasting changes in the political landscape, marked by realignments of party coalitions and voter bases.

Open primary

Allows voters to choose to vote in either party's primary regardless of their party affiliation.

Franking privilege

Allows members of Congress to send mail to constituents at the government's expense for official communication.

United States v

Supreme Court case addressing the constitutionality of the Gun-Free School Zones Act and Congress's power under the Commerce Clause.

Citizens United v

Ruled that political spending by corporations and unions is protected under the First Amendment, leading to increased corporate influence in elections.

Iron Triangles

Stable relationships among government agencies, interest groups, and congressional committees influencing policy decisions.

Political efficacy

Refers to an individual's belief in their ability to understand and influence political processes and outcomes.

Motor voter law

Allows eligible citizens to register to vote when applying for a driver's license or social services.

Voting behavior

Influenced by factors like party affiliation, ideology, demographics, candidate characteristics, and issue positions.