Public Opinion
What is public opinion?
The views and beliefs held by the public
What is lobbying?
Influencing government officials
What is an absentee ballot?
A ballot mailed in before Election Day
What is the supreme law of the land?
The Constitution
Which branch carries out laws?
Executive branch
How is public opinion measured?
Polls and surveys
What is the purpose of a special interest group?
Influence public policy
What is a caucus used for?
Nominate candidates
What does the Constitution do?
Sets up the government
Protects rights
Defines government powers
Which branch makes federal laws?
Congress
What strongly influences public opinion?
Significant events or crises
What type of party system does the U.S. use?
Two-party system
Who may vote in an open primary?
Any registered voter
What are the first ten amendments called?
The Bill of Rights
Which branch interprets laws?
Judicial branch
What activity directly expresses public opinion?
Voting in elections
Why do third parties struggle in the U.S.?
The system favors two major parties
What makes a closed primary “closed”?
Only party members can vote
What does rule of law mean?
No one is above the law
What system prevents one branch from becoming too powerful?
Checks and balances
Which institution most influences political beliefs?
Family
What happens at a national convention?
A party nominates its presidential candidate
Which is NOT a requirement to vote?
Pass a civics exam
What was the purpose of the Declaration of Independence?
Declare independence from Great Britain
What are the two parts of Congress?
Senate and House of Representatives