1.
Anthony King's concept of "running scared" suggests that politicians
Correct Answer
B. Do too little governing because they are perpetually campaigning.
Explanation
Anthony King's concept of "running scared" suggests that politicians do too little governing because they are perpetually campaigning. This means that instead of focusing on their responsibilities and making decisions for the betterment of the country, politicians are more concerned with staying in power and winning elections. They prioritize campaigning and pleasing the public rather than effectively governing and making necessary changes. This constant focus on campaigning leads to a lack of substantial governance and can hinder progress.
2.
The Federal Election Commission
Correct Answer
A. Is a bipartisan body responsible for administering campaign finance laws and enforcing compliance with those laws.
Explanation
The Federal Election Commission is a bipartisan body responsible for administering campaign finance laws and enforcing compliance with those laws. This means that it is a neutral organization that oversees the regulations and rules regarding how campaigns are funded and ensures that candidates and political parties follow these laws. It does not favor any specific political party and its main focus is on maintaining transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
3.
Which of the following functions do elections LEAST serve?
Correct Answer
D. Making and coordinating public policy
Explanation
Elections serve multiple functions in a political system, including providing legitimacy to the political system, selecting public officials, and connecting citizens to government officials. However, the function that elections least serve is making and coordinating public policy. While elections can indirectly influence policy decisions by electing officials with certain policy preferences, the primary responsibility for making and coordinating public policy lies with the elected officials and the government institutions. Elections are more focused on the selection of representatives rather than directly engaging in the policy-making process.
4.
Which of the following functions do elections LEAST serve?
Correct Answer
D. Making and coordinating public policy
Explanation
Elections primarily serve the functions of selecting public officials, connecting citizens to government officials, and providing legitimacy to the political system. However, they do not directly serve the function of making and coordinating public policy. While elected officials may have the authority to make and coordinate public policy, this is not the primary purpose of elections themselves. Elections are more focused on the democratic process of choosing representatives rather than the actual policy-making process.
5.
Daniel Smith argues that initiatives typically stem from
Correct Answer
C. The actions of a dedicated policy entrepreneur.
Explanation
The correct answer is "the actions of a dedicated policy entrepreneur." This means that initiatives are usually driven by individuals who are committed to a specific policy and take proactive steps to bring it to fruition. These policy entrepreneurs play a significant role in identifying and advocating for policy issues, often working independently or in collaboration with others to push for change. Their actions are crucial in initiating and advancing policy initiatives, rather than initiatives arising solely from elected officials, public demand, or the natural emergence of issues.
6.
Of the following, which is the most direct form of democracy?
Correct Answer
D. Initiative
Explanation
Initiative is the most direct form of democracy because it allows citizens to propose new laws or changes to existing laws directly, bypassing the legislature. It gives citizens the power to initiate legislation and put it to a vote, ensuring that the people have a direct say in the decision-making process. Unlike other options listed, such as a presidential election or direct primary, initiative allows citizens to directly participate in shaping the laws and policies that govern them.
7.
The election of 1800 was
Correct Answer
A. Decided by the House of Representatives.
Explanation
In the election of 1800, the decision was made by the House of Representatives. This was because no candidate received a majority of the electoral votes. According to the Constitution, when this happens, the House of Representatives has the responsibility to choose the President. They held a contingent election and ultimately decided the outcome of the election.
8.
What was the focus of the election of 1896?
Correct Answer
D. Economics
Explanation
The focus of the election of 1896 was economics. This election marked a significant shift in American politics, as it centered around economic issues such as currency and tariffs. The two major candidates, William McKinley and William Jennings Bryan, had differing views on these economic matters, with McKinley advocating for the gold standard and Bryan supporting the free coinage of silver. The election ultimately resulted in a victory for McKinley, solidifying the dominance of pro-business and conservative economic policies for the next several decades.
9.
Aside from overturning the Florida Supreme Court, what did the Supreme Court rule in Bush v. Gore (2000)?
Correct Answer
A. That more precise and consistent standards for evaluating ballots would have to be applied in all counties for ballot recounts to be valid.
Explanation
The Supreme Court ruled in Bush v. Gore (2000) that more precise and consistent standards for evaluating ballots would have to be applied in all counties for ballot recounts to be valid. This means that the court required a uniform standard to be used across all counties in Florida when recounting the ballots, in order to ensure fairness and accuracy in the election process. The ruling aimed to prevent different counties from using different criteria for evaluating and counting the ballots, which could lead to inconsistent and potentially unfair results.
10.
Which of the following is TRUE about American elections over the past 100 years?
Correct Answer
C. The suffrage has broadened, and the turnout has decreased.
Explanation
The correct answer is "The suffrage has broadened, and the turnout has increased." This means that over the past 100 years, more people have gained the right to vote (suffrage has broadened), and there has been an increase in the number of people actually participating in elections (turnout has increased).
11.
Which of the following statements about voting is FALSE?
Correct Answer
E. None of the above
Explanation
The given correct answer is "None of the above." This means that all of the statements about voting are true and none of them are false. According to the answer, it is rational to spend time becoming informed and deciding who to vote for, your vote can make a difference in the outcome of the election, the benefits of voting outweigh the costs, and even if there is little difference in the policy positions of the candidates, it is still rational to vote.
12.
What new way to register to vote was implemented with the passage of the Motor Voter Act?
Correct Answer
D. By checking a box on your license application or renewal form.
Explanation
The Motor Voter Act implemented a new way to register to vote by checking a box on your license application or renewal form. This means that individuals can conveniently register to vote while applying for or renewing their driver's license. This method aims to increase voter registration by making the process more accessible and integrated into routine administrative tasks.
13.
Political efficacy refers to the belief that
Correct Answer
E. Ordinary people can influence the government.
Explanation
The correct answer is "ordinary people can influence the government." Political efficacy refers to an individual's belief that their actions and participation in the political process can have an impact on the government. It is the belief that ordinary citizens can make a difference by voting, engaging in political activism, and holding their elected officials accountable. This belief is essential for a healthy democracy as it encourages citizen engagement and participation in the political system.
14.
Which of the following countries has the lowest voter turnout rate?
Correct Answer
C. United States
Explanation
The United States has the lowest voter turnout rate compared to the other countries listed. This may be due to various factors such as the complexity of the voting process, lack of accessibility to polling stations, and voter apathy. Additionally, the United States does not have mandatory voting laws like some other countries, which could contribute to lower turnout rates.
15.
Which of the following characteristics would make one more likely to vote in an election?
Correct Answer
D. Having a college degree
Explanation
Having a college degree is more likely to make someone vote in an election because individuals with higher levels of education tend to be more politically engaged and informed. They are more likely to understand the importance of voting and the impact it can have on their lives and society as a whole. Additionally, having a college degree often correlates with higher socioeconomic status, which can provide individuals with more resources and opportunities to participate in the political process.
16.
The mandate theory of elections is the idea that
Correct Answer
C. The election winner has authorization from voters to carry out his or her promised policies.
Explanation
The mandate theory of elections suggests that the election winner has authorization from voters to carry out his or her promised policies. This means that when a candidate wins an election, it is seen as a mandate from the voters to implement the policies that they campaigned on. It implies that the elected candidate has the support and backing of the majority of voters to carry out their proposed agenda. This theory emphasizes the importance of democratic representation and the idea that elected officials should act in accordance with the will of the people.
17.
Which of these is the least important dimension of a candidate's image?
Correct Answer
B. Intelligence
Explanation
Intelligence is considered the least important dimension of a candidate's image because while it is valuable, it does not necessarily guarantee success in a role. Other qualities such as integrity, reliability, competence, and experience are often seen as more important as they contribute to an individual's ability to perform effectively and work well with others. Intelligence alone may not necessarily translate into practical skills, work ethic, or the ability to make sound judgments and decisions.
18.
Research on voting behavior has shown that
Correct Answer
E. Policy voting has become somewhat easier than in the past.
Explanation
Research on voting behavior has shown that policy voting has become somewhat easier than in the past. This suggests that voters are now more informed and knowledgeable about the policies and positions of candidates. With the advancement of technology and easy access to information, voters can now easily gather information about candidates' policies and make more informed decisions based on their alignment with their own policy preferences. This trend indicates a shift towards a more policy-focused voting behavior among the electorate.
19.
Studies have shown that during the 1960s and 1970s,
Correct Answer
D. The hold of the parties on voters eroded substantially.
Explanation
During the 1960s and 1970s, studies have indicated that there was a significant decline in the influence of political parties on voters. This suggests that the hold of the parties on voters eroded substantially during this period. As a result, voters were less likely to be swayed by their party affiliation and more likely to vote based on other factors such as individual candidate qualities or specific policy issues. This shift in voting behavior reflects a weakening of party loyalty and a greater emphasis on individual preferences.
20.
The "electors" in the Electoral College are
Correct Answer
A. Selected by state parties, usually as a reward for faithful service to the party over the years.
Explanation
The electors in the Electoral College are selected by state parties as a reward for their faithful service to the party over the years. This means that the selection of electors is based on their loyalty and dedication to the party rather than any other criteria such as being members of Congress or political scientists. The selection process is typically done by state parties, allowing them to choose individuals who have demonstrated their commitment to the party's goals and values.
21.
Retrospective voting refers to voting for
Correct Answer
B. A candidate who promises to continue policies that have made you feel better off.
Explanation
Retrospective voting refers to voting for a candidate who promises to continue policies that have made you feel better off. This means that when individuals vote retrospectively, they consider the past performance of the candidate and evaluate whether their policies have positively impacted their lives. If they believe that the candidate's policies have made them better off, they are more likely to vote for that candidate in the future. This type of voting is based on the idea that past performance is a good indicator of future success, and individuals are motivated to vote for candidates who have a track record of policies that have benefited them.
22.
While the threat of electoral punishment constrains policymakers, it also helps to increase generalized support for
Correct Answer
D. Government and its powers.
Explanation
The threat of electoral punishment constrains policymakers because they are aware that if they make unpopular decisions, they may lose their position in the next election. However, this threat also helps to increase generalized support for government and its powers. When incumbents are seen as doing a good job, the public tends to have more confidence in the government and its ability to solve problems. This support can lead to a greater acceptance of the government's authority and its role in implementing policy solutions.
23.
Individuals who believe that they can influence government are also more likely to believe
Correct Answer
B. That government should have more power.
Explanation
Individuals who believe that they can influence government are more likely to believe that government should have more power. This is because they have a sense of efficacy and confidence in their ability to shape and influence government decisions. They may view government as a tool for bringing about change and addressing societal issues, and therefore advocate for a stronger government that can effectively address these concerns.
24.
In the 1976 case of Buckley v. Valeo, the Supreme Court ruled that
Correct Answer
C. The limitation on the amount of money persons could contribute to their own election campaigns violated free speech, and was unconstitutional.
Explanation
In the 1976 case of Buckley v. Valeo, the Supreme Court ruled that the limitation on the amount of money persons could contribute to their own election campaigns violated free speech and was unconstitutional. This means that individuals should have the right to spend their own money on their own campaigns without restrictions, as it is considered a form of expression protected by the First Amendment. The Court's decision emphasized the importance of political speech and the need to protect individuals' ability to financially support their own campaigns.
25.
What does a presidential candidate have to do to qualify for federal matching funds?
Correct Answer
A. Raise $5,000 on their own in at least 20 states.
Explanation
To qualify for federal matching funds, a presidential candidate must raise $5,000 on their own in at least 20 states. This requirement ensures that the candidate has a broad base of support across the country and is not solely reliant on a few states or wealthy donors. By meeting this threshold, the candidate becomes eligible to receive matching funds from the federal government, which helps to finance their campaign. This system aims to promote fairness and reduce the influence of big money in elections.
26.
The McCain-Feingold Act of 2002 did all of the following EXCEPT
Correct Answer
E. None of the above
Explanation
The McCain-Feingold Act of 2002 did not increase the amount that individuals could give to candidates from $1,000 to $2,000. This act, also known as the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act, aimed to regulate campaign financing by banning soft money contributions, indexing the limit on individual contributions to inflation for future years, and barring groups from running "issue ads" within 60 days of a general election if they refer to a federal candidate and are not funded through a PAC.
27.
Soft money consists of money
Correct Answer
C. For voter registration drives and campaign material at the grass-roots level.
Explanation
Soft money refers to funds that are not directly given to a candidate's campaign but are used for other purposes related to the campaign. This includes expenses for voter registration drives and campaign material at the grass-roots level. Soft money is typically used to support the overall goals of a political party or campaign, rather than being directly given to a candidate. It is often used to fund activities that indirectly benefit a candidate's campaign, such as increasing voter turnout or promoting the party's platform.
28.
In its 2004 ruling the FEC ruled that 527 groups
Correct Answer
A. Were not subject to strict contribution restrictions so long as their political messages did not make explicit endorsements of candidates using pHrases like "vote for" or "vote against."
Explanation
In 2004, the FEC ruled that 527 groups were not subject to strict contribution restrictions as long as their political messages did not contain explicit endorsements of candidates using phrases like "vote for" or "vote against." This means that these groups were allowed to receive contributions without limitations as long as their messages did not directly advocate for or against specific candidates. This ruling allowed 527 groups to have more flexibility in their political activities, as long as they avoided explicit endorsements.
29.
Critics of the PAC system are concerned that
Correct Answer
D. PACs may control what the electoral winners do once in office.
Explanation
The correct answer suggests that critics of the PAC system are concerned that PACs may control what the electoral winners do once in office. This implies that PACs have the potential to influence and manipulate the actions and decisions of elected officials, which can undermine the democratic process. It raises concerns about the extent of the influence that PACs hold over politicians and the potential for corruption or undue influence in the political system.
30.
According to Herbert Alexander's "doctrine of sufficiency,"
Correct Answer
A. There is a minimum amount of money that candidates must spend to have a chance at winning.
Explanation
According to Herbert Alexander's "doctrine of sufficiency," there is a minimum amount of money that candidates must spend to have a chance at winning. This suggests that simply having more money than the opponent or being wealthier does not guarantee victory. Instead, the focus is on reaching a certain threshold of spending that is considered necessary for a candidate to be competitive in the election. This implies that financial resources play a significant role in a candidate's chances of winning, but it is not solely determined by the candidate's personal wealth or net worth.
31.
Campaigns strengthen voter commitment to the usual party or the candidate they previously supported by emphasizing __________ as part of their campaign strategy.
Correct Answer
A. Reinforcement
Explanation
Campaigns strengthen voter commitment to the usual party or the candidate they previously supported by emphasizing reinforcement as part of their campaign strategy. Reinforcement refers to the act of reinforcing or strengthening existing beliefs or behaviors. In the context of political campaigns, this could involve reminding voters of the party's or candidate's past achievements, promoting consistent messaging, or highlighting shared values and beliefs. By using reinforcement, campaigns aim to solidify support among their target audience and increase the likelihood of voter commitment and loyalty.
32.
Which of the following is true of modern campaigns?
Correct Answer
D. Both B and C
Explanation
Modern campaigns involve much more communication between candidates and voters than America's founders ever imagined. Candidates in modern campaigns make numerous promises during nominations and elections that would have jarred with the founders' notions of the public interest.
33.
The "candidate-centered age" refers to a system of modern campaigns that allows politicians to
Correct Answer
E. All of the above.
Explanation
The "candidate-centered age" refers to a system of modern campaigns that allows politicians to have control over various aspects of their campaigns. They can decide on their own to run for office, build their own personal campaign organizations, raise their own campaign funds, and make individual promises about what they will do once they are in office. This shift towards a candidate-centered approach has given politicians more autonomy and has changed the dynamics of political campaigns.
34.
In most advanced, industrialized countries, national campaigns
Correct Answer
E. Are limited by law to no more than two months.
Explanation
National campaigns in most advanced, industrialized countries are limited by law to no more than two months.
35.
The first presidential caucus of the campaign season is traditionally held in
Correct Answer
E. Iowa.
Explanation
The first presidential caucus of the campaign season is traditionally held in Iowa. This is because Iowa holds the first-in-the-nation caucus, which is an important event in the U.S. presidential election process. Candidates spend a significant amount of time campaigning in Iowa and the state's caucus is seen as a crucial test of a candidate's viability and support. The Iowa caucus has a long-standing tradition and is considered an influential event in shaping the outcome of the presidential race.
36.
Today, most delegates to each major party's national convention are chosen by
Correct Answer
D. State presidential primaries.
Explanation
The correct answer is state presidential primaries. State presidential primaries are the most common method used to select delegates to each major party's national convention. In these primaries, voters in each state directly choose their preferred candidate for the party's nomination. The results of these primaries determine the allocation of delegates to each candidate, with the goal of reflecting the will of the voters. This system allows for a more democratic and transparent process in selecting delegates for the national convention.
37.
The opening up of the process to choose delegates to the Democratic National Convention in the immediate aftermath of 1968 was spearheaded by
Correct Answer
E. The McGovern-Fraser Commission.
Explanation
The correct answer is the McGovern-Fraser Commission. The McGovern-Fraser Commission was responsible for opening up the process to choose delegates to the Democratic National Convention after the tumultuous events of 1968. This commission was formed in response to the widespread belief that the nomination process was undemocratic and needed reform. The commission's recommendations led to greater inclusion and participation, as well as the implementation of rules that required the representation of women, minorities, and young people in the delegate selection process. This marked a significant shift in the Democratic Party's approach to selecting delegates and making the nomination process more democratic.
38.
Superdelegates
Correct Answer
E. Have helped restore an element of peer review to the process of choosing a presidential candidate.
Explanation
Superdelegates have helped restore an element of peer review to the process of choosing a presidential candidate. This means that superdelegates, who are typically party leaders and elected officials, have the ability to use their influence and expertise to evaluate the candidates and provide a valuable perspective on their qualifications. By having superdelegates involved in the process, it ensures that the selection of a presidential candidate is not solely based on popular vote, but also takes into account the opinions and evaluations of experienced party members. This helps to ensure that the candidate chosen is well-qualified and has the support of party leaders.
39.
Which of the following is NOT a criticism of the current system of presidential primaries and caucuses?
Correct Answer
C. The media do not have enough of a role in this process.
Explanation
The given answer states that the criticism of the current system of presidential primaries and caucuses is that the media do not have enough of a role in the process. This implies that the media's involvement is considered inadequate or insufficient in shaping the primary and caucus outcomes. The other options listed as criticisms include the excessive influence of money, difficulty for officeholders to participate, excessive attention on early primaries, and candidates dropping out before most states have held their primary or caucus.
40.
Proponents of a national primary argue that it would do each of the following EXCEPT
Correct Answer
C. Lengthen the time of the campaign.
Explanation
A national primary would not lengthen the time of the campaign because it would consolidate all the state primaries into one day, reducing the overall duration of the nomination process. This would allow for a more direct and efficient selection of candidates, as well as bring simplicity to the process. Additionally, a national primary would ensure that votes in one state do not have more political impact than votes in another, as all states would have an equal say in the nomination. It would also concentrate media coverage and increase interest and understanding by focusing on a single day of voting.
41.
Over the years, television coverage of national party conventions has
Correct Answer
C. Been scaled back.
Explanation
The correct answer is "been scaled back." This means that the television coverage of national party conventions has been reduced or decreased over the years. This could be due to various reasons such as changing viewer preferences, budget constraints, or a shift in focus towards other forms of media coverage.
42.
Traditionally, Iowa holds the first presidential primary to choose delegates to each party's national conventions.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because traditionally, Iowa holds the first presidential caucus, not primary, to choose delegates to each party's national conventions.
43.
The national party convention functions to select presidential and vice presidential candidates and to write a party platform.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The national party convention is a significant event where members of a political party gather to choose their party's candidates for the presidency and vice presidency. Additionally, during the convention, party members also work together to develop and finalize a party platform, which outlines the party's beliefs, goals, and policy positions. Therefore, the statement that the national party convention functions to select presidential and vice presidential candidates and to write a party platform is true.
44.
Unlike party convention delegates prior to 1968, most of today's delegates to Democratic conventions have few ties to experienced politicians or the party organization.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Most of today's Democratic convention delegates have few ties to experienced politicians or the party organization, unlike the delegates prior to 1968. This suggests that the composition of delegates has changed over time, with a decrease in the influence of experienced politicians and the party organization.
45.
The Democratic Party has been more preoccupied since 1968 with party efficiency and winning elections rather than with broadening representation in the party and opening up its process.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement suggests that the Democratic Party has prioritized party efficiency and winning elections over broadening representation and opening up its process since 1968. The correct answer is false because the statement implies that the Democratic Party has not focused on broadening representation and opening up its process, which may not be entirely accurate.
46.
The recent tendency of states to hold primaries early in the calendar year in order to capitalize on media attention is called frontloading.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Frontloading refers to the practice of states scheduling their primary elections early in the calendar year, usually before other states, in order to gain more media attention and influence the outcome of the nomination process. This strategy allows states to have a greater impact on the selection of a party's candidate, as candidates are more likely to focus their resources and campaigning efforts on states with early primaries. Therefore, the statement that the recent tendency of states to hold primaries early in the calendar year in order to capitalize on media attention is called frontloading is true.
47.
Candidate's policy positions receive more media attention than does their campaign strategy.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement suggests that candidate's policy positions receive more media attention than their campaign strategy. The correct answer is False because in reality, a candidate's campaign strategy tends to receive more media attention than their policy positions. The media often focuses on the candidate's tactics, messaging, and overall campaign strategy rather than delving deep into their specific policy positions.
48.
A political party's statement of its goals and policies over the next four years is called the party platform.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement correctly defines the term "party platform" as the goals and policies of a political party for the next four years. This platform serves as a guiding document for the party's actions and positions on various issues during their term. Therefore, the answer "True" is correct.
49.
The internet has had its greatest impact on campaigns in the area of advertising.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because the internet has had a significant impact on campaigns in various areas, not just advertising. It has revolutionized communication, fundraising, voter mobilization, and grassroots organizing. The internet allows campaigns to reach a wider audience, target specific demographics, and engage with supporters in real-time. Social media platforms have become powerful tools for political campaigns, enabling them to spread their message, raise funds, and mobilize supporters more effectively. Therefore, the internet's impact on campaigns extends beyond advertising.
50.
The Federal Election Campaign Act of 1974 was extremely effective in limiting the influence of money on campaigns and elections.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The Federal Election Campaign Act of 1974 was not extremely effective in limiting the influence of money on campaigns and elections. While the act did introduce some regulations and disclosure requirements for campaign financing, it did not have a significant impact on reducing the influence of money in politics. Subsequent court decisions, such as Citizens United v. FEC, further weakened the act's effectiveness by allowing for increased corporate and union spending in elections. Therefore, the statement that the act was extremely effective in limiting the influence of money on campaigns and elections is false.