2BTEXT5.9
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.