Political Parties Overview
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Questions and Answers

What primary challenge does the presidency face in balancing authority and accountability?

  • Judicial intervention
  • Excessive congressional support
  • Overwhelming public opinion
  • Lack of clarity in design (correct)

Which of the following is a method of judicial check on the presidency?

  • Unconstitutional declarations (correct)
  • Congressional approval
  • Impeachment trials
  • Public opinion polling

What is a primary function of the federal bureaucracy?

  • To create laws
  • To conduct elections
  • To implement policies (correct)
  • To regulate public opinion

Which criticism is associated with the bureaucratic incentive systems?

<p>Causing market distortion (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a challenge faced by the presidency?

<p>Excessive political checks (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the approximate number of active-duty personnel in the U.S. military?

<p>1.3 million (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which organization consists of 193 member nations?

<p>United Nations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is included in U.S. foreign aid?

<p>Military hardware (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What reflects a major influence on public policy in the United States?

<p>Federal judiciary (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What element is increasingly recognized as crucial to U.S. national security?

<p>Soft power (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of political parties in the U.S.?

<p>They are decentralized and fragmented. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Rational Choice Theory, how do political parties position themselves in relation to public opinion?

<p>Near, but not at, the center of public opinion. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Responsible Party Model emphasize?

<p>The actions of elected officials in implementing policies. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Anthony Downs define a political party as?

<p>A team seeking to control the government apparatus by gaining office. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do proponents of the Responsible Party Model advocate for?

<p>Clear policy stances and accountability. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What advantage do strong political parties offer according to the content?

<p>Efficient coordination. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a criticism noted about the decentralized system of political parties in the U.S.?

<p>It can be rigid and exclusionary. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do graphical representations in the content illustrate about political parties?

<p>The balancing act of party preferences. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the criticisms of the electoral process concerning late-voting states?

<p>They are often irrelevant in the overall outcome. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which benefit is NOT considered a solution to the free-rider problem in interest group formation?

<p>Selectivity in membership (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do conventions play in the political nomination process?

<p>To formally nominate candidates and develop party platforms. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant barrier to interest group formation mentioned?

<p>The free-rider problem. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of superdelegates within the Democratic Party?

<p>To have a limited role in the selection process. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of elections is criticized for being undemocratic?

<p>The structure of the Electoral College. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor has contributed to the explosion of interest groups?

<p>Technology advancements. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What strategy is crucial for candidates in general elections, especially in presidential races?

<p>Focusing on battleground states. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the executive branch does the Office of Management and Budget primarily handle?

<p>Budget formulation and management (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following influences the leadership of bureaucracy the least?

<p>Public opinion polls (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do iron triangles primarily function within the bureaucratic system?

<p>By connecting bureaucracies, committees, and interest groups (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary role of civil servants within the bureaucracy?

<p>To implement policies through merit-based hiring (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which economic challenge is most significantly associated with bureaucratic implementation?

<p>National debt (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of monetary policy as it relates to bureaucratic functions?

<p>To influence money supply and interest rates (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does not typically influence the budgeting process in the bureaucracy?

<p>Public charity donations (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What challenge does slow implementation in bureaucracy primarily affect?

<p>Execution of federal mandates (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of campaign finance regulations?

<p>To ensure transparency and limit contributions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of hyperpluralism?

<p>Too many groups leading to political gridlock (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a SuperPAC?

<p>An organization that can raise unlimited funds for political advocacy (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does NOT influence voter turnout?

<p>Campaign strategies (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of interest group primarily represents economic interests?

<p>Labor unions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an important condition for the success of interest groups?

<p>Access to strategic points in the political process (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes elitism in interest group influence?

<p>Dominance of wealthy groups over political decisions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the positive views of interest groups in a democracy?

<p>They enhance political participation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a significant limitation of welfare programs like TANF?

<p>Private sector dominance in service delivery (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What major event is projected to affect the Social Security Program by 2034?

<p>Expected exhaustion of the trust fund (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT highlighted as an objective of federal economic policies?

<p>Diversifying state tax revenues (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way has the evolution of welfare programs been significantly influenced?

<p>Through the Social Security Act of 1935 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a challenge in addressing income inequality in economic and social welfare policies?

<p>Ensuring program sustainability (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary roles of political parties in democratic governments?

<p>Shaping public opinion (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Rational Choice Theory, how do political parties position themselves in relation to the public opinion spectrum?

<p>Near the center to appeal broadly (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant challenge faced by minor parties in the U.S. political system?

<p>Institutional barriers to competing in elections (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do proponents of the Responsible Party Model primarily advocate for?

<p>Clear policy stances from parties (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a disadvantage of strong political parties?

<p>They may become exclusionary and rigid. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of political parties does the Downs Model emphasize?

<p>The strategic balancing of supporter preferences and broader appeal (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a criticism often levied against the decentralized nature of U.S. political parties?

<p>It creates challenges for organizational coherence. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What key task do parties perform to assist in the electoral process?

<p>Articulating policies (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reflects the historical transformation of party coalitions?

<p>The New Deal Coalition's impact on party structure (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the nomination stage of the presidential process primarily focus on?

<p>Winning delegates (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of the U.S. political party system?

<p>A winner-take-all electoral process (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor indicates a shift in party coalitions from the New Deal Coalition?

<p>Realignment of Southern conservatives (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'invisible primary' primarily involve?

<p>Elite support in the early nomination stages (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one consequence of the two-party system within the U.S.?

<p>Limited choices for voters (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributes to the evolution of political party structures?

<p>Growth of independent voter registration (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What impact did the realignment of Southern conservatives have on the Republican Party?

<p>It helped solidify a coalition of conservative voters. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the federal budget primarily reflect regarding national priorities?

<p>Resource allocation and financial burdens (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which tax structure is primarily progressive in its setup?

<p>Income tax (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following groups is most directly affected by entitlement programs?

<p>The elderly (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does incrementalism play in the budgetary process?

<p>Favors small, gradual adjustments to existing budgets (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which program is considered a means-tested program aimed at assisting specific demographics?

<p>Medicaid (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the structure of income tax in the United States create progressivity?

<p>Through tax brackets that increase rates with income (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant feature of the federal budget process involving multiple stakeholders?

<p>Involvement of Congressional committees and executive agencies (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which demographic group is least likely to be categorized below the poverty line?

<p>Married couples with dual incomes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which policy is aimed at addressing economic inequality through direct financial aid?

<p>Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What impact do social insurance taxes have on federal revenues?

<p>They contribute significantly to funding entitlement programs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary challenges posed by interest groups to democratic governance?

<p>Creating unequal representation within the political process (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor increases the chances of winning an election but does not guarantee victory?

<p>Campaign finance contributions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of lobbying effort typically involves grassroots campaigns?

<p>Mobilizing citizens to influence public policy (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of interest groups, what does hyperpluralism refer to?

<p>Too many groups causing policy gridlock (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the influence of money in elections according to the content?

<p>High spending raises the likelihood of winning, but it isn’t a guarantee. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary consideration for establishing successful interest groups?

<p>High levels of member mobilization (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is considered a positive impact of interest groups on democracy?

<p>Checks on government power through advocacy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic distinguish the House of Representatives from the Senate?

<p>Centralized leadership structure (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of interest group is most directly aimed at influencing economic policies?

<p>Labor unions (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of elitism in the context of interest groups?

<p>Dominance of wealthy groups over political processes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant challenge to the long-term sustainability of welfare programs?

<p>Projected exhaustion of trust funds (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What major economic indicator is associated with the limitations of the TANF welfare program?

<p>Income inequality (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a central focus of federal economic policies?

<p>High employment rates (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does the federal judiciary play in U.S. economic policies?

<p>Influencing laws through interpretation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following challenges is linked to the shrinking workforce in economic planning?

<p>Decreased tax revenues (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary criticisms regarding the influence of interest groups on democratic governance?

<p>They may lead to unequal representation. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes hyperpluralism?

<p>A condition where too many groups lead to policy gridlock. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the concept of elitism fundamentally differ from pluralism in the context of interest groups?

<p>Elitism emphasizes the power of wealthy groups over decision-making. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What effect does high campaign spending typically have on election outcomes?

<p>It increases the chances of winning but does not ensure success. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the roles of incumbents in terms of legislative strategy?

<p>Engaging in credit claiming (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following conditions is essential for the success of interest groups?

<p>Strong member mobilization. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions by the president can influence legislative outcomes?

<p>Execution of laws (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant consequence of increased polarization on lobbying?

<p>Increased competition among interest groups for influence. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do executive orders differ from presidential appointments?

<p>Executive orders do not require legislation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a common misconception about SuperPACs?

<p>They are subject to strict contribution limits. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of economic interest groups compared to ideological groups?

<p>Promoting specific economic interests and policies. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'coattails effect' in congressional elections refer to?

<p>Presidential candidates benefiting from popular local candidates (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way do campaign finance regulations interact with lobbyists?

<p>They create loopholes that lobbyists can exploit. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of the ‘honeymoon period’ for a new president?

<p>Increased public approval ratings resulting in legislative momentum (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept highlights the relationship between public influence and presidential power?

<p>Going public through media engagements (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a legislative check on presidential power?

<p>Veto override by Congress (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What impact do mid-term losses typically have on the presidency?

<p>Erosion of legislative support and influence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do conference committees contribute to the legislative process?

<p>They reconcile differences in legislation from both houses (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key function of independent regulatory agencies in the bureaucratic system?

<p>To regulate and enforce specific governmental policies (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of the Responsible Party Model?

<p>It emphasizes transparency and accountability. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which best describes the positioning strategy of rational political parties according to the Downs Model?

<p>They aim for consensus by aligning closely with public opinion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is likely a disadvantage of strong political parties outlined in the content?

<p>They might inhibit the development of independent candidates. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Rational Choice Theory emphasize in the context of political parties?

<p>Political parties operate to maximize electoral benefits based on public opinion. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main institutional barriers faced by minor parties in the U.S. political system?

<p>Commitment of major parties to maintain a two-party system. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical aspect of understanding the distribution of public opinion related to political parties?

<p>Successful parties must balance core supporter preferences with broader appeal. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reflects a fundamental task of political parties in democratic governments?

<p>To shape public opinion and formulate relevant policies. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of executive orders within the bureaucracy?

<p>To enforce presidential policy directives (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do iron triangles interact in the realm of bureaucratic influence?

<p>They consist of relationships among bureaucracies, interest groups, and congressional committees (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which economic theory is associated with the belief that government spending can stimulate demand during a recession?

<p>Keynesian economics (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What impact do tax expenditures have on federal revenue?

<p>They create revenue losses through exemptions and exclusions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do Congressional hearings play in influencing the bureaucracy?

<p>They allow Congress to assess the implementation of laws and bureaucratic performance (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant challenge faced by the federal bureaucracy regarding policy implementation?

<p>Slow implementation of policies due to procedural complexities (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor least influences the leadership of the bureaucracy?

<p>Historical precedents in bureaucratic appointments (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primarily distinguishes issue networks from iron triangles in bureaucratic influence?

<p>The breadth of actors involved, including various stakeholders and interest groups (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential impact of national debt on economic policy making?

<p>It can constrain government spending options and influence fiscal policy decisions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the merit-based hiring established by the Pendleton Act affect the composition of the bureaucracy?

<p>It encourages a diverse and professional workforce that is resistant to political pressures (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Political Party

A group of people who try to win elections and control the government.

Rational Choice Theory

A theory that explains how political parties strategically position themselves based on voter preferences.

Downs Model

A model that describes how parties position themselves near the center of public opinion.

Responsible Party Model

A model where parties have clear policy positions and are accountable for them.

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Party in Government

Focuses on elected officials' roles in implementing policies.

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Decentralized Parties

U.S. political parties are not well-organized.

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Minor Party Challenges

Obstacles that make it difficult for small parties to succeed.

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Public Opinion Distribution

A visual way to show how the public's opinions are spread out.

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Party Identification

A person's loyalty and affiliation with a political party.

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Superdelegates

Party leaders who can vote for any presidential candidate in the nominating process, but their role is more limited since 2020.

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Interest Groups

Organizations that advocate for specific policy interests.

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Electoral College

An indirect system for electing the US president.

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Battleground States

States where presidential candidates focus their campaign efforts.

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Free-rider problem

The challenge of getting people to contribute to a collective good when they can benefit without contributing.

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Policy voting

Voting based on a candidate's stance on specific policies.

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Interest Group Formation Barriers

Obstacles that prevent interest groups from forming or thriving (common challenge).

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Lobbying

The act of trying to influence government policy by speaking to government officials.

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Campaign Finance Regulations

Rules about who can give money to campaigns and how much they can give.

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Pluralism

The idea that many groups competing for influence leads to good outcomes.

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Hyperpluralism

Too many groups compete, resulting in gridlock and inaction.

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Voter Turnout

The percentage of eligible voters who actually vote in an election.

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Bicameral Structure

A legislature divided into two chambers (like the House and Senate).

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Influence of Money

High spending in campaigns often increases winning chances but does not guarantee victory.

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Impeachment

A process to remove a president or other high-ranking official from office.

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Judicial Checks

The courts can declare laws unconstitutional.

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Political/Public Checks

Congress and public opinion influence the president.

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Bureaucracy

Federal agencies execute government policies.

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Bureaucracy Challenges

Bureaucracies face problems like poor design, a lack of clarity and insufficient resources, with criticisms of market distortions and cumbersome rules.

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Federal Bureaucracy

Part of the executive branch that implements policies.

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Presidential Influence (Bureaucracy)

President's power to appoint officials, issue orders, set the budget, and reorganize.

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Congressional Influence (Bureaucracy)

Congress's power to approve appointments, set budget, hold hearings, and pass laws.

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Iron Triangles

Relationship between bureaucracy, committees, and interest groups.

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Issue Networks

Broader range of actors involved in policymaking, beyond iron triangles.

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Executive Orders

Directives issued by the president that have the force of law.

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Political influence on bureaucracy

The executive and legislative branches act to influence how the bureaucracy operates.

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Soft Power

A nation's ability to influence others through cultural appeal, diplomacy, and economic incentives rather than military force.

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Nuclear Proliferation

The spread of nuclear weapons technology and materials to more countries or actors, increasing international risks.

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Globalization

Increased interconnectedness of nations through trade, communication, and cultural exchange.

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International Organizations

Groups of nations or other actors that work together to address global challenges, like the United Nations or regional alliances.

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U.S. Trade Deficit

The situation where the U.S. imports more goods and services from other countries than it exports.

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Central Tasks of Political Parties

Political parties have three main tasks: shaping public opinion, selecting candidates, and formulating policies.

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Decentralized and Fragmented Parties

U.S. political parties have a loose structure with less control at the national level, leading to different views within the party.

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Campaign Phase: Nomination

The first stage of a presidential election where candidates compete for their party's nomination by winning delegates in primaries and caucuses.

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Campaign Phase: General Election

The final stage of a presidential election where nominated candidates from different parties compete for the presidency by winning electoral votes.

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Invisible Primary

The period before the official nomination process where candidates seek support from party elites and raise funds.

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Caucus

A meeting of party members to choose delegates for the national convention, often with lower participation and regional factors.

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Primary

A statewide election where voters directly choose delegates, usually with higher participation and often a focus on early states.

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Winner-Take-All System

In some states, the presidential candidate who wins the most votes in the state receives all of that state's electoral votes.

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Party Realignment

A significant shift in party coalitions and allegiances, often triggered by major events or changes in demographics.

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New Deal Coalition

A historic alliance of urban workers, minorities, and rural voters that supported Democratic presidents from the 1930s to the 1960s.

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Two-Party System

The dominant political system in the U.S., where two major parties (Democrats and Republicans) compete for power.

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SuperPACs

Independent political action committees that can raise unlimited funds from corporations and unions to support or oppose candidates in elections.

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Political Action Committee (PAC)

A type of interest group that raises and spends money to influence elections.

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Grassroots campaigns

Political campaigns that rely on the mobilization of ordinary citizens and volunteers, often organized by interest groups.

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Influence of money on elections

High spending in campaigns increases winning chances but doesn't guarantee victory.

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Federal Budget

A detailed plan outlining how the government will raise and spend money each year, reflecting national priorities and values.

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Sources of Revenue

The ways the government collects money, including individual income taxes, social insurance taxes, and borrowing.

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Federal Taxes: Structure

How taxes are organized, including income tax (progressive, where higher earners pay a larger percentage), corporate tax, and tax brackets (different rates based on income levels).

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Entitlement Programs

Government programs that provide benefits to those who meet eligibility requirements, like Social Security and Medicare.

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Means-tested Programs

Government programs where eligibility is based on income or assets, like Medicaid and SNAP.

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Incrementalism

The tendency for budget changes to be small and gradual, building upon previous spending levels.

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Poverty Line

A measure used to determine who is considered poor based on income level.

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EITC

The Earned Income Tax Credit, a tax credit for low-income working individuals and families.

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TANF

A federal program that provides financial assistance to low-income families with children, replacing the previous Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) program. It emphasizes work requirements and time limits for benefits.

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National Debt

The total amount of money that the U.S. government owes to its creditors, accumulated from past budget deficits where spending exceeds revenue.

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Pay-as-you-go Social Security

The current system where Social Security benefits are funded by taxes from current workers, meaning younger generations pay for older generations' retirement.

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U.S. National Security Policymakers

Key individuals and institutions responsible for protecting the nation's interests, including the President, the Department of Defense, and diplomats, all working together to address national security challenges.

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Social Security Act (1935)

Landmark legislation that established a system of social insurance for elderly Americans, including retirement benefits, unemployment insurance, and aid to families with dependent children (later replaced by TANF).

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Incumbents

Elected officials running for re-election, they have advantages like name recognition and resources.

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Credit Claiming

Incumbents take credit for positive actions in their district or state, like a new highway or funding for a local project.

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Casework

Incumbents help constituents with individual problems, like resolving issues with a federal agency.

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Pork Barrel Projects

Government spending on localized projects, often for political gain, like a new park or bridge.

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Position Taking

Incumbents take strong stances on issues to show they are active and engaged.

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Weak Opponents

Incumbents may face challengers with less experience or resources, making it harder to defeat them.

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Campaign Spending

Incumbents often have more money to spend on campaigns, which can influence their chances of winning.

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Floor Action

The debate and vote on a bill in the House or Senate.

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Conference Committees

Special committees of both houses to reconcile differences in bills before they go to the president.

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Presidential Support

Presidents can influence congressional decisions by lobbying for bills or using their public platform.

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Civil Servants

Employees of the federal government who are hired based on merit, qualifications, and experience, not political affiliation. This system helps ensure professionalism and expertise in government service.

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President's Influence on Bureaucracy

The President has significant influence over the bureaucracy through appointments, executive orders, budget control, and reorganization.

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Congress's Influence on Bureaucracy

Congress also has power over the bureaucracy. It can approve presidential appointments, set the budget, hold hearings, and pass laws that affect agencies and their work.

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Fiscal Policy

The use of government spending, taxation, and borrowing to influence the economy. It aims to stimulate growth or curb inflation.

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Monetary Policy

Actions taken by the Federal Reserve, the central bank of the U.S., to control the money supply and interest rates, influencing inflation and economic activity.

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Income Inequality

The widening gap between the rich and the poor in a society, often measured by comparing income levels at different points on the income distribution.

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Study Notes

Political Parties

  • Political parties are fundamental institutions in democratic governments
  • They shape public opinion, select candidates, and formulate policies
  • Political parties are "teams of men and women seeking to control the government apparatus by gaining office in a duly constituted election" (Downs)
  • Central tasks include translating public input into policy outputs
  • Key tasks include: picking candidates, running campaigns, providing cues to voters, articulating policies, coordinating policymaking
  • Party in the Electorate encompasses party identification & growing number of independent voters
  • Party Organization includes party leaders & daily operations
  • Party in Government focuses on elected officials' actions in office (implementing policies)
  • Rational choice theory posits parties position themselves near the center of public opinion, balancing core supporter preferences with broader appeal
  • Downs model in practice focuses on attracting a broad coalition without alienating their base
  • Party coalitions and realignments have existed throughout U.S. history, including the New Deal Coalition (1932-64) and Southern conservatives shifting to the Republican party (1968-present)
  • Transformative elections reshape party coalitions
  • U.S. two-party system is due to single-member districts and winner-take-all elections
  • Minor parties face institutional barriers and challenges
  • Responsible party model emphasizes clear policy stances & accountability, but the U.S.'s decentralized system is valued by some and criticized by others
  • Strong parties offer coordination, but can be rigid and exclusionary

Campaigns and Voting Behavior

  • Presidential nomination process involves winning delegates in a nomination stage, followed by winning electoral votes in a general election stage
  • Evolution of process moved from party leaders supporting candidates to primary and caucus reliance
  • Delegate and nomination process phases include the invisible primary, caucuses (lower participation, regional factors), and primaries (higher participation, often front-loaded)
  • Republican election systems are winner-take-all

Interest Groups

  • Interest groups influence policy decisions and political outcomes
  • They're organizations of individuals with shared policy goals engaging in the political process
  • Studying interest groups helps understand influence with frameworks like pluralism, elitism, and hyperpluralism
  • Interest groups can be categorized by type, including environmental, equality, and public interest lobbies
  • Key factors in interest group growth include technology, diverse interests, and lobbying/PACs (Political Action Committees)
  • Free-rider problem is a barrier to interest group formation, but selective benefits (material, solidary, purposive) overcome it
  • Interest groups use techniques like lobbying, electioneering, litigation, and grassroots campaigns to influence policy.

Congress

  • Congress is the legislative branch responsible for drafting, debating, and passing legislation
  • Congressional members have characteristics like high pay and benefits, two-year terms (House) and six-year terms (Senate), and requirements for qualifications, determined by the Constitution
  • Descriptive representation focuses on demographics; substantive representation focuses on constituents' interests
  • Incumbents possess advantages in elections like advertising, credit claiming, casework, pork barrel projects, position taking, and having weak opponents, as well as campaign spending
  • Congress has a bicameral structure with a centralized House of Representatives and decentralized Senate
  • Important roles within Congress include leadership, committees, and various stages like introduction, committee action, floor action, action in the other house, conference committee, and presidential action
  • Important factors influencing Congressional decisions include presidential support and political parties

The Presidency

  • The presidency is multifaceted, balancing power and accountability. Founders' design prioritizes balance w/ checks & balances.
  • Article II of the Constitution outlines presidential powers.
  • Presidential powers encompass legislative (recommendation, emergency sessions, state of the union, action on legislation), and administrative (execution of laws) powers.
  • Concerns about tyranny shaped the design of the presidency with checks and balances
  • The president deals w/ concerns over imperial vs imperiled presidency, balancing authority and accountability

The Bureaucracy

  • The federal bureaucracy implements policies, shaping economic, social, and political life.
  • It's a part of the executive branch, hierarchically structured, with specialized tasks
  • Key elements of the bureaucracy include cabinet departments, executive office of the president, agencies, and independent regulatory bodies
  • Bureaucracy implementation involves creation of agencies, rules, coordination, and regulation.
  • Challenges include ensuring clarity, sufficient resources, and avoidance of market distortions & cumbersome rules
  • Presidential influence on the bureaucracy comes through appointments, budget, reorganization, and policy pronouncements
  • Congressional influence comes through appointments, budget, hearings, and legislation

Economic Policymaking

  • Government strategies meet citizen economic needs through various policies
  • Federal budget reflects national priorities & values
  • Federal budget sources include individual income taxes, social insurance taxes, and borrowing
  • Federal taxes include progressive income tax, corporate tax, tax brackets, effective tax rates, and comparisons with state taxes
  • Economic and social welfare policymaking in the U.S. involves addressing high employment, low inflation through policies such as monetary policy, fiscal policy, and addressing issues like income inequality and poverty, including programs like entitlement programs (Social Security, Medicare), and means-tested programs (Medicaid)
  • Federal expenditures include allocation (defense vs social services), entitlements (e.g. Social Security), and incrementalism (budgetary process).

Foreign Policy and National Security

  • National security policymaking involves actors, objectives, strategies, and challenges, considering international organizations like the UN, regional organizations, and multinational corporations
  • Major U.S. national security policy makers include the president, diplomats, department of defense, joint chiefs of staff, and the national security council
  • National security elements include military power limits, nuclear proliferation, globalization, international monetary fund policies, international trade agreements (e.g., NAFTA, GATT), foreign aid, economic considerations, and international cooperation.

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Explore the essential roles of political parties in democratic governance. This quiz covers their functions, organizational structure, and the impact of public opinion on their strategies. Delve into key concepts like candidate selection, policymaking, and party identification.

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