Study 7 Elections and Voting with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
How are election responsibilities divided between states and the federal government?
States administer most elections and set many practical rules. Congress may regulate or override state rules for congressional elections under the Elections Clause.
What distinguishes a primary from a general election?
Primaries or other nominating contests select party candidates; general elections let voters choose among candidates for office.
How often are U.S. House and Senate seats contested?
House elections occur every two years. Senators serve six-year terms, with roughly one-third of Senate seats contested every two years.
How does plurality voting work in a single-member district?
In a single-member district, one representative is elected, usually by plurality: the candidate with the most votes wins, even without a majority.
What change did the Twenty-Sixth Amendment make?
The Twenty-Sixth Amendment lowered the voting age to 18.
What is the general voter-registration requirement, and which state is an exception?
Most states require eligible voters to register before voting; North Dakota is an exception. Registration rules and deadlines vary by state.
What does voter turnout measure?
Voter turnout is the share of eligible or voting-age people who cast ballots.
What factors can influence voter turnout?
Turnout can be affected by age, education, income, registration access, election competitiveness, campaign contact, and how important voters consider the election.
What can shape how voters choose candidates?
Choices can reflect party identification, views on issues, evaluations of candidates and incumbent performance, and social experiences.
What are key functions of political campaigns?
Campaigns nominate candidates, communicate positions, raise funds, organize volunteers, advertise, and contact voters.
What makes a campaign expenditure independent?
An independent expenditure is spending made without coordination with a candidate or campaign.
How many Electoral College votes are there, and how many are needed to win?
The Electoral College has 538 votes, and a candidate currently needs a majority of 270 to win.