CPCT Electoral Systems and Voting Rights Flashcards
6 cards from real CPCT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CPCT Electoral Systems and Voting Rights flashcards as text
What is a 'swing state' (or 'battleground state') in U.S. presidential elections?
Answer: A state where neither party has an overwhelming advantage and the outcome is uncertain
A swing state is one where both major parties have roughly similar levels of support, making it highly competitive and pivotal to election outcomes.
What does 'campaign finance reform' typically seek to address?
Answer: Limiting or regulating money's influence in political campaigns
Campaign finance reform focuses on regulating contributions and expenditures in elections to reduce undue influence by wealthy donors or special interests.
What is the purpose of the Federal Election Commission (FEC)?
Answer: To enforce campaign finance laws and regulate federal election activity
The FEC is an independent regulatory agency that enforces campaign finance law and oversees disclosure of campaign contributions and expenditures.
What is a 'filibuster' in the context of U.S. elections legislation?
Answer: A Senate tactic of prolonged debate to delay or block a vote on legislation
A filibuster is a Senate procedural tactic in which a senator or group prolongs debate to prevent a vote; it takes 60 votes (cloture) to end it.
What is 'motor voter' registration in the United States?
Answer: A system allowing citizens to register to vote when obtaining or renewing a driver's license
The National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (the 'Motor Voter Act') requires states to offer voter registration at DMV offices and other public agencies.
Which body has the authority to certify the results of a U.S. presidential election?
Answer: Congress, in a joint session
Congress certifies the Electoral College results in a joint session, typically held in early January following a presidential election.