Study Notes on Voting and Elections

Chapter Overview

• Discusses voting and elections in American government.

Key Historical Events

• Voting Rights Act: Signed on August 6, 1965, by President Lyndon B. Johnson; crucial for civil rights.

Voter Registration

• Moving requires re-registration; some states use DMVs for updates.

• National Voter Registration Day: Encourages registration, especially among students.

Voter Turnout

• Measured by different populations: total, voting-age (VAP), voting-eligible (VEP), registered voters.

Demographics

• Elected officials often do not reflect general demographics; typically more male, white, and educated.

Campaign Practices

• Candidates spend considerable time in states with early primaries.

• Union members mobilize for candidate support.

Fundraising and Contributions

• Overview of contribution limits for federal elections (2015-2016).

Voting Methods

• States like Michigan allow straight-ticket voting.

• States vary in allowing public initiatives for voting on laws/amendments.