Election Fundamentals GOVT 2305, Unit 10

Elections Are Frequent Americans have the opportunity to cast their ballots frequently. Here in Texas, the conscientious voter can participate in the following elections: Spring primary election and runoff of even-numbered years November general election of even- numbered years Local elections held at various times Special elections for a variety of offices and other purposes Would you expect frequent elections would increase or decrease average election turnout? Decrease it.

Elections are Separate and Independent The president, members of Congress, senators, state officials, and local officials are chosen in elections held at different times and from different districts. The election of one official is not necessarily dependent on the election of another.

States Set Election Laws Although the U.S. Constitution and U.S. law prohibit voter discrimination based on age, gender, race, and ethnicity, states are responsible for establishing election laws and administering elections. Voter ID laws, early voting, registration procedures, balloting (mail or in-person), and vote counting procedures are set by states. For example, some states conduct elections by mail.

Officials Serve Fixed Terms of Office In the United States, officials are elected to serve fixed terms of office, typically two years, four years, or six years.

Most Votes Wins In most American elections, the candidate with the most votes wins. Other candidates receive nothing. Some states, mostly in the South, hold runoff elections between the top two finishers in a primary election if a candidate does not receive a majority of vote in the initial balloting. (A majority is 50 percent plus one.)

Types of elections

General Elections A general election is an election to fill state and national offices held in November of even-numbered years. Voters choose among Democratic and Republican candidates, and sometimes third-party candidates and independent candidates not affiliated with any political party. In every state but Georgia, the candidate with the most votes wins the general election. A majority is not necessary. Georgia has a run-off election if no one wins a majority.

Primary Elections A primary election is an election held to determine a party's nominees for the general election ballot. Democrats compete against other Democrats; Republicans compete against Republicans.

What We Have Learned What are the ground rules for conducting elections in the United States? What are the different kinds of elections? What is the difference between a general election and a primary election?