Voting and Elections Summary Notes

Pete Buttigieg: Former mayor of South Bend, Indiana; served in the U.S. Navy Reserve; ran for presidency in 2020.

Importance of Registration: Essential for determining eligible voters in elections.
Voter Registration Methods: Procedures vary by state, ranging from simple to complex (e.g., California's driver's license registration vs. Texas's government ID requirement).
Historical Context: Post-Civil War laws (e.g., poll taxes, literacy tests) historically disenfranchised Black voters, leading to the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to protect minority voting rights.
Current Issues: The Shelby County v. Holder decision (2013) weakened the Voting Rights Act, resulting in stricter voter ID laws in some states.
State Variations: More than 18 states offer online registration, while others, like North Dakota, do not.
Registration Processes: Generally requires name, address, and proof of residency, with specific requirements for ID and residency duration varying by state.
Same-Day Registration: Available in 14 states and Washington D.C., contributing to higher voter turnout, particularly among younger demographics.

Factors Affecting Turnout: Influenced by age, education, income, and political culture.
Calculating Turnout: Various methods (Voting Age Population (VAP), Voting Eligible Population (VEP), registered voters) produce different turnout figures.
Demographics: Higher turnout is observed among older and more educated citizens; lower among the 18-25 age group.
Political Engagement: Campaign efforts, such as 'Rock the Vote,' aim to increase voter participation, especially among youth.

Election Process Stages: Includes running for office, primary elections, nominations, and general elections.
Campaign Dynamics: Candidates manage voter preferences and fundraising; visibility is crucial for success.
Fundraising Importance: Early fundraising significantly impacts a campaign's viability.

Campaign Strategies: Tailored for primary versus general elections, with name recognition and visibility being key objectives.
Technology: Utilizes social media and online platforms for voter engagement and fundraising.
Voter Decision-Making: Influenced by party affiliation, demographics, and issue-based voting (retrospective or prospective).

Definition: Allows citizens to vote directly on policies and laws, a practice not universally adopted by all states.
Forms: Initiatives (voters propose laws) and referendums (voters approve or reject legislation) enable direct citizen involvement.
Challenges: Requires an informed electorate and is susceptible to influence from special interest groups.