1. The Presidential Election

2. Our most recent election
November 2012
President Obama reelected for a second term over Governor Mitt Romney
President Obama: 332 electoral votes
50.6% of the popular vote
Mitt Romney: 206 electoral votes
47.9% of the popular vote

3. Who Supported who?
Obama: heavy support from –Blacks, Hispanics, and younger voters
55% of women voted for President Obama
Romney: 52% of men voted for the Governor

4. 22nd Amendment
This amendment prohibits a president from having more than two terms in office
Prior to this amendment a few presidents tried to run for more than two terms
George Washington’s decision not to run for a third term is viewed as protecting the government from a monarchy
While FDR was campaigning for his fourth term the governor of New York proposed an amendment that limits the Presidency to two terms
FDR is the only President to have served more than two terms

5. How are presidents chosen?
Presidents and Vice Presidents are picked from the candidates presented by the Democrat and Republican Parties
Smaller parties exist that offer up candidates, but they usually lack support.
These are called third parties
The Constitution does not mention political parties, but they have been around since the founding of the United States

6. During Presidential Election Years
The two parties will plan a separate political convention
Delegates from every state will be in attendance
This takes place the summer before an election
There are speeches and votes.
A candidate for President and Vice President are chosen

7. Presidential Campaigns
A large sum of money is spent on campaigning for the Presidency
Estimates top 1.5 billion for the 2012 election
There is a belief that reforms should be made to reduce this abundant spending
During an election candidates will have numerous television ads, news stories, and be using social media to gain support
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