fuck you govt Flashcards
(34 cards)
What’s republican?
Republican: Favors a limited role of government in economic matters, promoting free-market policies and personal responsibility.
What’s democrat?
Democrat: Supports a more active role for government in regulating the economy and providing social services to promote equality and protect citizens.
What is each political party’s platform position on the role of government?
republican and democrat
Why did the two-party system develop in the United States?
The two-party system developed due to historical foundations, the ratification debates (Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists), and the winner-takes-all electoral system, which discourages multiple parties.
What is the main goal (function) of political parties?
The main goal of political parties is to gain control of government by winning elections and influencing public policy.
Who does the “watchdog function” of political parties most benefit?
The watchdog function most benefits the public by holding the party in power accountable for its actions.
What is the spoiler role of third parties?
The spoiler role of third parties occurs when they take votes away from major party candidates, potentially changing the outcome of an election.
Describe what has been the third parties’ most important role.
Third parties have introduced important new ideas and issues into American politics that major parties later adopt.
How is membership in either of the political parties determined?
Membership in political parties is determined voluntarily by personal choice and usually by registering as a member of a party.
List four strategies that interest groups can use to influence government.
Lobbying government officials
Endorsing political candidates
Contributing money to campaigns (PACs)
Educating the public through media campaigns
What is the main goal of interest groups?
The main goal of interest groups is to influence public policy and promote the interests and views of their members.
How are political parties and interest groups similar?
Political parties and interest groups are similar because both attempt to influence government policies and public opinion, and both organize people around shared ideas or goals.
. List three ways in which people can participate in politics.
Voting in elections
Volunteering for a campaign
Attending political rallies or protests
List three civic responsibilities.
Voting in elections
Serving on a jury when called
Staying informed about public issues
. How can citizens best protect their freedoms?
Citizens can best protect their freedoms by participating in the democratic process, being informed, and holding government officials accountable.
Was the fight to completely expand suffrage a fast and short process?
No, the fight to expand suffrage was a long and difficult process that took many years and many different movements for different groups.
. What are the three universal requirements to vote?
Citizenship of the United States
Residency in the state where voting
Being at least 18 years old
What is the purpose of voter registration?
The purpose of voter registration is to prevent fraudulent voting and ensure that only eligible citizens are allowed to vote.
What are the three categories of people not legally allowed to vote?
Individuals convicted of serious crimes (felonies) (in many states)
Mentally incompetent individuals (as declared by a court)
Non-citizens (foreign nationals)
Primaries & Caucuses
Voters select party nominees through elections (primaries) or meetings (caucuses).
National Convention
Political parties officially nominate their candidates for president and adopt party platforms.
General Election
Voters choose among candidates from all parties for public office.
Electoral College
Electors cast formal votes for President and Vice President based on the results of the general election.
What are the three methods of nominating a candidate?
Self-announcement
Caucus
Direct primary
