THE ELECTORAL PROCESS AND DIRECT DEMOCRACY

Question 1

Explain and analyse three factors that can affect the outcomes of presidential elections in the US.

Answer 1

1. Economic Performance
   • “Pocketbook voting” influences outcomes.
   • Example: Trump lost in 2020 partially due to COVID-19 economic fallout.
   • Analysis: Voters often blame/incumbents for downturns.
2. Incumbency Advantage
   • Sitting presidents have resources and recognition.
   • Example: Obama’s 2012 re-election after significant fundraising.
   • Analysis: Historically strong, but crises (e.g., COVID-19) can disrupt.
3. Media and Campaigns
   • Media shapes public perception.
   • Example: Trump’s social media strategy energized his 2016 base.
   • Analysis: Positive coverage crucial for undecided voters.

Question 2

Explain and analyse three features of the electoral college.

Answer 2

1. Winner-Takes-All System
   • Most states allocate all votes to the state winner.
   • Example: Trump won Florida in 2016 by a slim margin but got all 29 votes.
   • Analysis: Distorts representation and ignores minority votes in states.
2. Overrepresentation of Small States
   • States like Wyoming have disproportionate influence.
   • Example: Wyoming’s 3 votes represent fewer people than California’s votes.
   • Analysis: Contradicts “one person, one vote” principle.
3. Role of Swing States
   • Focus is on competitive states.
   • Example: Biden’s win in Pennsylvania (2020) was pivotal.
   • Analysis: Neglects safe states, narrowing campaign focus.

Question 3

Explain and analyse three ways that money makes a difference in elections.

Answer 3

1. Campaign Advertising
   • Funding enables nationwide ads.
   • Example: Biden’s record-breaking $1 billion campaign fund (2020).
   • Analysis: Media saturation influences undecided voters.
2. Super PACs
   • Unlimited spending amplifies messages.
   • Example: Koch network supported Republican candidates heavily.
   • Analysis: Often favors corporate interests over grassroots voices.
3. Candidate Viability
   • Fundraising reflects perceived electability.
   • Example: Early donor support boosted Obama’s 2008 campaign.
   • Analysis: Limits opportunities for underfunded candidates.

Question 4

Explain and analyse three arguments that direct democracy works well in the USA.

Answer 4

1. Public Involvement
   • Encourages citizen participation.
   • Example: Legalization of recreational marijuana via state referendums.
   • Analysis: Enhances legitimacy of laws.
2. Local Priorities
   • Reflects state-specific values.
   • Example: Colorado’s referendum to legalize marijuana (2012).
   • Analysis: Balances federalism with public will.
3. Accountability
   • Referendums allow voters to bypass representatives.
   • Example: California Proposition 22 (2020) on gig workers’ rights.
   • Analysis: Can resolve controversial issues directly.

Question 5

Explain and analyse three reasons why split-ticket voting is significant.

Answer 5

1. Encourages Bipartisanship
   • Voters may elect divided government.
   • Example: 2020 election: Biden (Democrat) won presidency, but Republicans gained House seats.
   • Analysis: Forces compromise but can lead to gridlock.
2. Reflects Diverse Preferences
   • Voters differentiate between local and national issues.
   • Example: Swing states often split between Senate and presidential votes.
   • Analysis: Highlights issue-based voting over partisanship.
3. Reduces Polarization
   • Promotes moderate policies.
   • Example: Voters supporting moderate senators like Joe Manchin (Democrat).
   • Analysis: Limits dominance of extreme ideologies.