Political Parties
What is the main function of political parties in elections?
To nominate candidates and mobilize voters for elections.
What is the primary goal of interest groups?
To influence public policy in favor of their interests.
What are the constitutional requirements to run for president?
Must be a natural-born U.S. citizen, at least 35 years old, and a U.S. resident for 14 years.
How many total electoral votes are needed to win the presidency?
270 electoral votes.
How do interest groups provide expertise in shaping public policy?
By providing technical expertise and data to policymakers.
How do political parties influence government policy?
By creating platforms, organizing legislatures, and influencing policymaking.
How do interest groups influence policy through lobbying?
By meeting with lawmakers, providing expertise, and advocating for specific legislation.
What is the difference between a primary and a caucus?
A primary is a direct vote by party members, while a caucus involves discussion and group decision-making.
What happens if no candidate wins a majority in the Electoral College?
The election is decided by the House of Representatives, with each state delegation casting one vote.
What is the role of bureaucrats in the policy-making process?
Bureaucrats implement laws, write regulations, and enforce policies.
What is party realignment, and when does it typically occur?
A significant shift in party coalitions or voter preferences, often during critical elections.
What is the "free rider problem," and how do interest groups address it?
When individuals benefit from a group’s actions without contributing; addressed by offering selective incentives
How does the winner-take-all system impact presidential elections?
It often discourages third-party candidates and focuses on a two-party competition.
How does the Electoral College provide representation for smaller states?
It gives smaller states a disproportionately larger voice compared to their population size.
How does the media influence public policy outcomes?
The media shapes public opinion and applies pressure on policymakers through agenda-setting.
How have demographic changes influenced party platforms?
Parties adjust their platforms to address the priorities of growing demographic groups, such as younger voters or ethnic minorities.
Name one benefit and one drawback of interest-group influence on elections.
Benefit: They represent specific interests and provide expertise. Drawback: They may prioritize narrow interests over the public good.
What role do delegates play at party conventions?
Delegates cast votes for their party's presidential nominee based on primary or caucus results.
What is a "faithless elector," and why are they controversial?
An elector who does not vote for the candidate they pledged to support; they undermine the will of voters.
What is the significance of issue networks in modern policymaking?
Issue networks involve coalitions of interest groups, experts, and policymakers working together on specific issues.
What is a party's national convention, and what is its primary purpose?
To formally nominate a presidential candidate and unify the party around a platform.
How do Political Action Committees (PACs) relate to interest groups?
PACs are fundraising arms of interest groups that donate to campaigns.
Name one structural barrier faced by third-party candidates in elections.
Winner-take-all systems, high ballot access requirements, and lack of media coverage
Which two states use a district-based method to allocate electoral votes?
For: Protects smaller states' interests. Against: Can result in a president who loses the popular vote.
How do public opinion polls impact policy decisions by lawmakers?
Polls inform lawmakers about constituents’ preferences, potentially influencing their decisions.