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Congressional Elections Overview

  • Political Legitimacy: Relies on free and fair elections; linkage institutions connect the people to the process (political parties, campaigns, elections).

  • G.K. Chesterton Quote: Emphasizes the importance of engaging directly in democracy.

  • Election Frequency:

    • National elections every two years.

    • Presidential elections every four years, which coincide with Congressional elections.

    • Midterm elections occur two years into a presidential term focusing on Congressional offices.

    • State and local elections are held even more frequently.

Campaigns

  • Purpose: Introduce candidates to voters.

  • Characteristics: Long duration, significant campaign finance required, often include negative advertising.

  • Importance: Essential for assessing candidate character.

Incumbency

  • Definition: Current office holder running for reelection.

  • Incumbency Advantage: Higher likelihood of winning reelection due to factors like name recognition, fundraising ease, campaign record, favorable district lines, and low voter turnout.

  • Impact on Democracy: Some argue incumbency undermines democracy, while others view it as a source of stability for voters.

Electoral Dynamics

  • Impact of Gerrymandering: Redistricting can create non-competitive districts.

  • Party Nomination Process: Often involves closed primaries, limiting serious challenges.

  • Campaign Finance Laws: Impede challengers from raising funds necessary to defeat incumbents.

Election Participation

  • Nationalized elections (focused on major issues) lead to higher turnout and increased incumbent defeat.

  • Local elections focus on local issues, generally resulting in high incumbency rates.

Voter Turnout Statistics

  • House incumbency rates reach approximately 90%; slightly lower in the Senate.

  • Voter turnout:

    • Presidential elections ideally exceed 50% of eligible voters.

    • Midterm elections typically see turnout below 40%.

    • Issues with under votes (non-voters) and over votes (invalid ballots).

Democratic System

  • Influenced by federal policies on campaigning and electoral rules.

  • E.E. Schattschneider Quote: Defines democracy as a competitive political system requiring conflict, competition, organization, and leadership.

  • Citizen Responsibilities: Maintaining democracy through participation, organization, and leadership is essential.