Who are the people represented by members of Congress?
Constituents
What is one common reason for low voter turnout in the U.S.?
Voter registration requirements, voter apathy, or too busy.
What document is it called that outlines a political party’s principles, agenda, and policy goals?
Party platform
According to data and research most Americans are receiving their news from what specific type of media?
Social Media
Identify: What SCOTUS case limited the use of racial gerrymandering under the Equal Protection Clause?
Shaw v. Reno (1993)
What is the process of distributing seats in the House of Representatives based on population?
Apportionment
Which amendment lowered the voting age to 18?
26th Amendment
What is the difference between straight-ticket and split-ticket voting?
Straight = all one party; Split = mix of parties.
Media’s power to shape which issues the public focuses on.
Agenda setting
Define: What is a “SuperPAC”?
An organization that can raise unlimited funds to support candidates independently.
What is the process of redrawing congressional district boundaries after each census?
Redistricting
Which amendment banned poll taxes in federal elections?
24th Amendment
What is it called when voters switch their party loyalty, often during a critical election?
Realignment
What term describes when journalists focus on polling and strategy rather than policy?
Horse-race journalism
Describe: How did Citizens United v. FEC change the role of money in campaigns?
It allowed unlimited independent expenditures by corporations and unions, leading to SuperPACs.
Why is gerrymandering considered controversial?
It allows manipulation of district boundaries for political advantage.
What is the difference between retrospective and prospective voting?
Retrospective = based on past performance;
Prospective = based on future promises
What system makes it difficult for third parties to win elections in the U.S.?
Single-member plurality (winner-take-all)
What is the media’s “watchdog” role?
Investigating and exposing wrongdoing in government.
Describe: How does the Electoral College influence campaign strategies?
Candidates focus on swing states / battleground states where the outcome is uncertain.
What Supreme Court case ruled that malapportionment violates the 14th Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause?
Baker v. Carr (1962)
What 2010 case allowed unlimited independent expenditures by corporations and unions?
Citizens United v. FEC
Describe: How does the Electoral College influence campaign strategies?
Candidates focus on swing states / battleground states where the outcome is uncertain.
Describe: Why might media consolidation and social media have altered the quality of political information available to voters.
Fewer owners = less diversity of viewpoints.
social media increases access but spreads misinformation and echo chambers.
Explain: How can interest groups use PACs and SuperPACs to influence elections?
By funding issue ads, mobilizing voters, and supporting candidates indirectly.