Unit 1 Vocabulary
Government
Democracy
Civics
Political Party Group of voters with common interests who want to influence or control government decisions
Two-Party System Our political system 2 major political parties throughout our history The Constitution says nothing about political parties
Third Parties Challenge the 2 major parties Can affect the outcome of the election or issues discussed Rarely win elections (Lincoln only one)
Platform
Plank Each individual part of the party’s platform
Primary Elections Voters choose candidates to run in the general election (in November) Primary elections occur in each state, from January through Summer
Nomination Political parties select candidates to run for public office (through primary elections and caucuses) The person selected is the nominee, or candidate
Polling Place
Ballot
Absentee Ballot
Electorate
Incumbent
Lobbyist Representative of an interest group who contacts lawmakers or other government officials to influence their decisions and policy making
Special-interest-group
Political Action Committee (PAC) Political organization established by a corporation, labor union, or other special-interest group designed to support candidates by contributing money Often create political advertisements that support a candidate, but they cannot coordinate with a particular candidate’s campaign
Propaganda
Electoral College
Electors
Winner-take-all system
Referendum A way for citizens to vote on state or local laws For example, a referendum might be required for a community to vote to provide funding for a new school