Media
This type of media coverage focuses on which candidate is leading in polls rather than their policies
Horse-Race Journalism
This term describes a direct interaction between interest group representatives and government officials to influence policy decisions.
What is lobbying?
This major factor often discourages young voters from going to the polls.
lack of political efficacy
These are the two main political party symbols in American politics
What is the Donkey (Democratic Party) and Elephant (Republican)
What did the Supreme Court rule in the landmark case "Citizens United v. FEC?"
Corporations/Unions/Independent Expenditures can spend unlimited cash in SuperPACS
Money is Free Speech
The rise of ideologically-driven media outlets has contributed to this phenomenon, where individuals increasingly consume news that aligns with their existing beliefs.
Political polariziation
This campaign strategy involves attacking an opponent’s record, character, or policies rather than promoting one’s own views.
What are negative ads (mudslinging)
This demographic group historically has the highest voter turnout rates in the United States.
Who are older adults (65+)?
Also acceptable - higher education rates
This is the main function of political parties in elections.
running candidates for office & winning elections
This type of election is held midway through a president’s term and typically sees lower voter turnout.
What is a midterm election
The New York Times exemplified this journalistic role by publishing the Pentagon Papers, revealing government deception during the Vietnam War.
What is Watchdog?
These are the 3 entities that make up an iron triangle
What are...
Congressional committee
Bureaucratic agencies
Interest Group
This landmark legislation aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in voting by outlawing practices like literacy tests and providing federal oversight in areas with a history of voter discrimination
What is the Voting Rights Act of 1965?
This term describes the set of ideals and beliefs that shape a political party’s agenda and positions on issues.
What is a Party Platform?
What are incumbent advantages?
Name recognition, campaign funding, casework, positions on powerful committees, franking privilege, media access, etc.
This term describes media outlets targeting specific audiences with tailored content, often reinforcing ideological perspectives.
This type of organization raises money to donate directly to candidates and campaigns, subject to strict contribution limits.
PACS (political action committes)
What did each of the following do for voting rights in America?
15th, 19th, 26th Amendment?
15th Amendment - African American Male Suffrage
19th Amendment - Women's Suffrage
26th Amendment - set voting age at 18
Winner Take All Voting System
This event officially kicks off the presidential election season every four years.
What is the Iowa Caucus
This role of the media involves deciding which issues and stories are presented to the public, shaping the political agenda.
What is the Gatekeeper role?
nterest groups often file this type of legal brief in court cases where they are not directly involved, aiming to influence the court’s decision.
What is an amicus curiae brief (friend of the court brief)?
This type of voting behavior occurs when people cast their vote based on the past performance of a political party or candidate.
Retrospective Voting
This term refers to a long-term shift in party loyalty among voters, often tied to a critical election.
Party Realignment
In the event of a tie in the Electoral College, this determines the next President of the United States
What is the House of Representatives?