1.
The Democratic and Republican candidates for president are formally nominated by the
Correct Answer
D. National party conventions
Explanation
National party conventions are where the Democratic and Republican candidates for president are formally nominated. These conventions are held by each political party to officially select their candidate for the upcoming presidential election. During the conventions, delegates from each state come together to vote and determine the party's nominee. The conventions also serve as a platform for the party to showcase their agenda, rally support, and unite party members behind their chosen candidate. Therefore, the national party conventions are the correct answer for this question.
2.
Caucuses are usually organized like
Correct Answer
D. Pyramids
Explanation
Caucuses are usually organized like pyramids. This means that the caucus system follows a hierarchical structure, with smaller groups or precincts feeding into larger ones. The process starts at the grassroots level, where individuals gather in local precincts to discuss and select their preferred candidates. These precincts then send delegates to county conventions, who in turn select delegates for state conventions. Finally, the state conventions choose delegates for the national party convention, where the party's nominee is ultimately decided. This pyramid-like structure ensures a systematic and organized process of candidate selection within the caucus system.
3.
Following the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in 1968, the party chose to
Correct Answer
E. Open up its process of choosing delegates to the national convention in order to respond to demands for greater inclusion from women, minorities, youth, and other groups
Explanation
The correct answer is that the Democratic Party chose to open up its process of choosing delegates to the national convention in order to respond to demands for greater inclusion from women, minorities, youth, and other groups. This decision was made following the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in 1968, where there were protests and unrest. The party recognized the need to address the concerns of underrepresented groups and make the delegate selection process more inclusive. By doing so, they aimed to give these groups a greater voice and representation within the party.
4.
What was the mandate of the McGovern-Fraser Commission?
Correct Answer
A. To make the Democratic Party conventions more representative
Explanation
The mandate of the McGovern-Fraser Commission was to make the Democratic Party conventions more representative. This means that the commission was tasked with implementing changes that would ensure that the party conventions accurately reflected the will of the party's members and voters. This could include measures such as increasing the number of delegates chosen through primaries and caucuses, as well as diversifying the composition of the delegate pool to better reflect the party's demographic makeup. The goal was to make the convention process more democratic and inclusive.
5.
National party leaders who automatically get a delegate slot at the Democratic national party convention are called
Correct Answer
C. Superdelegates
Explanation
Superdelegates are national party leaders who automatically receive a delegate slot at the Democratic national party convention. Unlike regular delegates, superdelegates are not elected through state primaries or caucuses. Instead, they are party insiders, including elected officials, who have the power to vote for the presidential nominee at the convention. Superdelegates are seen as influential figures within the party and their votes can greatly impact the outcome of the nomination process.
6.
Frontloading refers to
Correct Answer
B. The recent tendency of states to hold primaries early in the calendar year in order to capitalize on media attention
Explanation
Frontloading refers to the recent tendency of states to hold primaries early in the calendar year in order to capitalize on media attention. This means that states are scheduling their primary elections earlier in the year to gain more media coverage and influence the outcome of the nomination process. By holding their primaries early, states hope to have a greater impact on the overall election and increase their relevance in the political process. This strategy allows states to have a larger role in shaping the nomination process and potentially sway the outcome of the election.
7.
The New Hampshire primary is important because
Correct Answer
D. It is the first primary
Explanation
The New Hampshire primary is important because it is the first primary. Being the first state to hold a primary, it sets the tone for the rest of the election season and can greatly influence the momentum and viability of candidates. It provides an early indication of voter preferences and can shape the narrative and media coverage surrounding the campaign. Candidates often invest significant time and resources in New Hampshire to make a strong showing and gain early momentum in the race.
8.
The "big mo" refers to
Correct Answer
A. Achieving momentum in the nomination campaign
Explanation
The term "big mo" refers to achieving momentum in the nomination campaign. This means that a candidate is gaining significant support, popularity, and success in their campaign, which can help propel them towards winning the nomination. Momentum is crucial in a campaign as it can attract more supporters, donors, and media attention, ultimately increasing the candidate's chances of securing the nomination.
9.
A political party’s statement of its goals and policies for the next four years is called a
Correct Answer
B. Party platform
Explanation
A political party's statement of its goals and policies for the next four years is called a party platform. This document outlines the party's stance on various issues, such as healthcare, education, and the economy, and serves as a guide for party members and voters. It helps to establish the party's identity and provides a framework for its candidates to campaign on specific issues. The party platform is an important tool for voters to understand a party's priorities and make informed decisions during elections.
10.
The Federal Election Campaign Act
Correct Answer
D. Required all candidates for federal office to disclose all contributions made to their
campaigns
Explanation
The correct answer is "required all candidates for federal office to disclose all contributions made to their campaigns." The Federal Election Campaign Act was a law passed in 1971 that aimed to increase transparency and accountability in campaign financing. One of the key provisions of the Act was the requirement for all candidates for federal office to disclose all contributions made to their campaigns. This provision was put in place to ensure that the public had access to information about who was funding political campaigns, which could potentially influence the candidates' actions and policies.
11.
Soft money is
Correct Answer
E. Money donated to parties rather than candidates, thus not subject to contribution or spending limits
Explanation
Soft money refers to money donated to political parties rather than individual candidates. This type of donation is not subject to contribution or spending limits, allowing parties to receive larger sums of money. Soft money became a controversial issue as it allowed individuals and corporations to indirectly influence elections by donating large amounts of money to parties. In response to concerns about the influence of money in politics, laws were passed to restrict or eliminate soft money donations.
12.
Which of the following is an example of a 527 group?
Correct Answer
A. MoveOn.org
Explanation
MoveOn.org is an example of a 527 group because it is a political organization that is not affiliated with any political party and focuses on issue advocacy and grassroots organizing. 527 groups are tax-exempt organizations that engage in political activities and are allowed to raise and spend unlimited amounts of money to influence elections. MoveOn.org is known for its progressive stance on various issues and its involvement in political campaigns and elections.