All Flashcards
Compare open and closed primaries.
Open: Any registered voter can vote. Closed: Only registered party members can vote.
Primaries vs. Caucuses: Main differences?
Primaries: Secret ballot elections. Caucuses: Community meetings, public discussion.
Compare pledged delegates and superdelegates.
Pledged: Committed to a candidate. Super: Can support any candidate (unelected).
Electoral College: Pros vs. Cons?
Pros: Ensures smaller states have a voice. Cons: Can lead to a president who didn't win the popular vote.
Role of Electoral College?
Elects the president based on state electoral votes, not popular vote.
Role of national conventions?
Parties formally nominate their candidates after primaries and caucuses.
Incumbency advantage: Causes and effects?
Cause: Name recognition, bully pulpit. Effect: Higher chance of reelection.
What is the effect of winning Iowa/New Hampshire?
Effect: Gains momentum, attracts donors, boosts campaign.
Electoral College: Effect on campaigning?
Effect: Candidates focus on swing states, neglecting others.