Unit 5 Flashcards
(26 cards)
Linkage Institutions
Structures that connect people to the government
Political Efficacy
A person’s belief that they can influence politics
Voter Turnout
Percentage of eligible voters who actually vote
Franchise
The right to vote
Party Coalition
Groups that support a political party
Interest Groups
Organizations that seek to influence policy
Iron Triangle
Relationship between Congress, bureaucracy, and interest groups
PAC
Group that raises money for candidates
Super PAC
Can raise unlimited money but can’t coordinate directly
Electoral College
Process for electing the president
Incumbency Advantage
Sitting members of Congress are likely to win reelection
Horse-Race Journalism
Focus on who’s winning, not issues
Citizen United v. FEC (2010)
Struck down limits on independent political spending
Rational Choice
Vote based on personal benefit
Retrospective
Vote based on past performance
Prospective
Vote based on promises
Party-Line
Vote for same party across ballot
Age
Older people vote more
Education
More education = more likely to vote
Income
Wealthier people vote more
Race
Historically lower turnout among minorities, but varies
Registration Laws
Stricter laws may lower turnout
Compulsory Voting
Not in U.S.—optional voting reduces turnout
PACs
Donate directly, but have contribution limits