AP Government Test #2

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AP Government Quizzes & Trivia

Test on Units II and III.


Questions and Answers
  • 1. 

    Which of the following statements about gerrymandering is true?

    • A.

      It has been banned by United States Supreme Court decisions beginning with Baker v. Carr.

    • B.

      It was used traditionally to maintain urban control of the House of Representatives.

    • C.

      It can be used by a political party to draw boundary lines to control as many districts as possible.

    • D.

      It guarantees greater constituency control over elected representatives.

    • E.

      It ensures liberal control of the House of Representatives.

    Correct Answer
    C. It can be used by a political party to draw boundary lines to control as many districts as possible.
    Explanation
    Gerrymandering refers to the practice of manipulating the boundaries of electoral districts to benefit a particular political party. The given answer correctly states that gerrymandering can be used by a political party to draw boundary lines in a way that allows them to control as many districts as possible. This manipulation of district boundaries can give a party an advantage in elections by concentrating their supporters in certain districts while spreading out the opposition's supporters across multiple districts. It is a controversial practice that has been the subject of legal challenges and debates over its impact on fair representation and democracy.

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  • 2. 

    Which of the following statements best describes the organization of the two major political parites in the United States?

    • A.

      Parties have no organization except at the national level.

    • B.

      Parties are centrally organized to provide a smooth transition from one national campaign to the next.

    • C.

      Parties are organized much like a large corporation, in that decisions flow from national to state and local levels.

    • D.

      Local and state parties have virtually no power in the party system.

    • E.

      Separate and largely independent party organizations exist at national, state, and local levels.

    Correct Answer
    E. Separate and largely independent party organizations exist at national, state, and local levels.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is that separate and largely independent party organizations exist at national, state, and local levels. This means that political parties in the United States have a hierarchical structure where decision-making and organization occur at different levels. While there may be some coordination and collaboration between the different levels, each level has its own autonomy and power within the party system. This allows for a more decentralized approach to party organization, with each level focusing on its specific responsibilities and objectives.

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  • 3. 

    The primary election system of selecting presidential candidates has had which of the following effects?

    • A.

      It has increased the importance of state party organizations.

    • B.

      It has loosened the hold of party leaders over the nomination process.

    • C.

      It has reduced the role of citizens in the candidate selection process.

    • D.

      It has lowered the cost of running for office.

    • E.

      It has led to a decline in the importance of party voter-registration drives.

    Correct Answer
    B. It has loosened the hold of party leaders over the nomination process.
    Explanation
    The primary election system of selecting presidential candidates has loosened the hold of party leaders over the nomination process. This is because in the primary system, voters directly participate in selecting their preferred candidate, rather than party leaders making the decision. This shift in power has allowed for a more democratic and inclusive process, as party leaders no longer have complete control over the nomination process.

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  • 4. 

    Considering all elections at all levels of government, which of the following best describes electoral behavior in the United States?

    • A.

      Primary elections tend to elicit a higher voter turnout than do general elections.

    • B.

      The majority of the electorate does not vote in most elections.

    • C.

      Voter turnout plays an insignificant role in election outcomes.

    • D.

      Adult citizens under the age of 30 tend to have the highest rate of voter turnout.

    • E.

      Voters with strong party identification vote less regularly than do independents.

    Correct Answer
    B. The majority of the electorate does not vote in most elections.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "The majority of the electorate does not vote in most elections." This answer describes the electoral behavior in the United States by highlighting the fact that a significant portion of the eligible voters do not participate in elections. This is supported by data that consistently shows low voter turnout rates in both primary and general elections.

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  • 5. 

    Which of the following describes a fundamental difference between political parties and interest groups?

    • A.

      Political parties are prohibited from sponsoring campaign advertisements, and interest groups are not.

    • B.

      Political parties represent broad arrays of issues, whereas interest groups are more likely to focus on narrow sets of issues.

    • C.

      Political parties are more likely to focus on national politics, whereas interest groups focus on local politics.

    • D.

      Political parties tend to have strength in particular regions, whereas the power of interest groups is more consistent across states.

    • E.

      Political parties are required to disclose their campaign finance activities, whereas interest groups are not.

    Correct Answer
    B. Political parties represent broad arrays of issues, whereas interest groups are more likely to focus on narrow sets of issues.
    Explanation
    Political parties represent broad arrays of issues, whereas interest groups are more likely to focus on narrow sets of issues. This means that political parties aim to appeal to a wide range of voters by addressing various policy areas and ideologies. On the other hand, interest groups are formed by individuals or organizations with specific concerns or agendas, advocating for their particular interests or causes. While political parties have a broader scope and aim to gain power in government, interest groups focus on influencing policy decisions and promoting their specific objectives.

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  • 6. 

    An interest group is most likely to have influence in Congress when the issue at stake

    • A.

      Is narrow in scope and low in public visibility.

    • B.

      Is part of the president's legislative package.

    • C.

      Has been dramatized by the media.

    • D.

      Engages legislators' deeply held convictions.

    • E.

      Divides legislators along party lines.

    Correct Answer
    A. Is narrow in scope and low in public visibility.
    Explanation
    Interest groups are most likely to have influence in Congress when the issue at stake is narrow in scope and low in public visibility. This is because when the issue is narrow, it affects a smaller group of people, making it easier for interest groups to mobilize support and resources. Additionally, when the issue has low public visibility, there is less public scrutiny and opposition, allowing interest groups to work behind the scenes and exert their influence more effectively. In contrast, issues that are part of the president's legislative package, dramatized by the media, engage legislators' deeply held convictions, or divide legislators along party lines may attract more attention and scrutiny, making it harder for interest groups to have their desired influence.

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  • 7. 

    Political socialization is the process by which

    • A.

      The use of private property is regulated by the government.

    • B.

      Governments communicate with each other.

    • C.

      Public attitudes toward government are measured and reported.

    • D.

      Political values are passed to the next generation.

    • E.

      Children are trained for successful occupations.

    Correct Answer
    D. Political values are passed to the next generation.
    Explanation
    Political socialization is the process by which political values are passed on to the next generation. It involves the transmission of political beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors from older generations to younger ones through various socializing agents such as family, education, media, and peers. This process plays a crucial role in shaping individuals' understanding of politics, their political ideologies, and their engagement in political activities. By passing on political values, societies ensure the continuity of their political systems and norms across generations.

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  • 8. 

    Which of the following is the most important influence on the choice made by voters in presidential elections?

    • A.

      Partisan identification

    • B.

      Party platform adopted at the national convention

    • C.

      Vice-presidential running mate

    • D.

      Endorsement by political incumbents

    • E.

      Appeal of the candidates' spouses

    Correct Answer
    A. Partisan identification
    Explanation
    Partisan identification refers to an individual's affiliation or loyalty to a particular political party. In presidential elections, it is considered the most important influence on voters' choices. This is because party identification often shapes voters' attitudes, beliefs, and values, which in turn influence their decision-making process. People tend to align themselves with a party based on shared ideologies, policy preferences, and perceived party performance. This affiliation strongly influences their voting behavior and can override other factors such as party platforms, running mates, endorsements, or the appeal of candidates' spouses.

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  • 9. 

    Which of the following is the most accurate statement about political parties in the United States?

    • A.

      Parties increasingly identify themselves with coherent ideologies to attract large blocks of voters.

    • B.

      The percentage of voters identifying themselves as either Democrats or Republicans has been declining since the 1970s.

    • C.

      National party organizations are generally the strongest party organizations.

    • D.

      It is increasingly difficult for third parties to gain more than two percent of the popular vote.

    • E.

      Most candidates prefer to run as independents rather than as Democrats or Republicans.

    Correct Answer
    B. The percentage of voters identifying themselves as either Democrats or Republicans has been declining since the 1970s.
    Explanation
    The correct answer states that the percentage of voters identifying themselves as either Democrats or Republicans has been declining since the 1970s. This suggests that there has been a trend of decreasing party affiliation among voters in the United States over the past few decades. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as dissatisfaction with the two major parties, an increase in independent or third-party candidates, or a shift in political ideologies among the electorate. However, without further context or data, it is difficult to determine the exact reasons for this decline.

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  • 10. 

    Which of the following is NOT an explanation for low voter turnout?

    • A.

      Registration requirements

    • B.

      Low political efficacy among many voters

    • C.

      Laws protecting minority voting rights

    • D.

      Frequent elections at the state and local level

    • E.

      Weekday elections

    Correct Answer
    C. Laws protecting minority voting rights
    Explanation
    Laws protecting minority voting rights cannot be an explanation for low voter turnout because they actually encourage and facilitate voting among minority groups. These laws are put in place to ensure equal access to the voting process and protect the rights of marginalized communities. Therefore, they would not contribute to low voter turnout but rather aim to increase participation and representation.

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  • 11. 

    Which of the following individuals would be most likely to vote in a Republican primary?

    • A.

      A 25-year-old white male with some high school education who is employed as a laborer in Florida

    • B.

      A 55-year-old African American saleswoman from Georgia who has a master's degree

    • C.

      A 65-year-old Hispanic male from California who is retired and lives on social security

    • D.

      A 35-year-old female secretary from New York with an associate's degree who is a devout Catholic

    • E.

      A 45-year-old white businessman from South Carolina who attends church weekly

    Correct Answer
    E. A 45-year-old white businessman from South Carolina who attends church weekly
    Explanation
    A 45-year-old white businessman from South Carolina who attends church weekly would be most likely to vote in a Republican primary because South Carolina is a predominantly Republican state, and the individual's demographic characteristics align with the typical Republican voter profile. Additionally, attending church weekly suggests a higher level of religious conservatism, which is often associated with the Republican Party.

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  • 12. 

    Which of the following is true of political action committees (PACs)?

    • A.

      They make campaign contributions in hopes of gaining access to legislators.

    • B.

      They are a part of political party organizations.

    • C.

      They are allowed to contribute to only one candidate in any election.

    • D.

      They nominate candidates for president at national party conventions.

    • E.

      They operate at the state level but not at the national level.

    Correct Answer
    A. They make campaign contributions in hopes of gaining access to legislators.
    Explanation
    Political action committees (PACs) make campaign contributions in hopes of gaining access to legislators. PACs are independent organizations that raise and spend money to support or oppose political candidates or issues. They do this by making contributions to candidates' campaigns, which can help them gain access and influence over lawmakers. PACs are not a part of political party organizations, they are allowed to contribute to multiple candidates in an election, and they do not nominate candidates for president at national party conventions. Additionally, PACs can operate at both the state and national levels.

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  • 13. 

    The agenda-setting function of the media refers to the power to

    • A.

      Endorse specific candidates for political office

    • B.

      Favor the position of one interest group over another

    • C.

      Counter the censorship activities of media watch groups

    • D.

      Mobilize economic interests in favor of a particular candidate

    • E.

      Decide which issues are important enough to bring to public attention

    Correct Answer
    E. Decide which issues are important enough to bring to public attention
    Explanation
    The agenda-setting function of the media refers to its power to decide which issues are important enough to bring to public attention. This means that the media has the ability to prioritize certain topics and determine what the public should focus on. By doing so, the media can shape public opinion and influence the public's perception of what is important in society.

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  • 14. 

    The most widely performed act of political participation in the United States is

    • A.

      Writing letters to public officials

    • B.

      Voting in local elections

    • C.

      Voting in presidential elections

    • D.

      Contributing money to political candidates

    • E.

      Attending local party meetings

    Correct Answer
    C. Voting in presidential elections
    Explanation
    Voting in presidential elections is the most widely performed act of political participation in the United States. This is because presidential elections receive significant media coverage and public attention, leading to high voter turnout. Additionally, the presidency is seen as the most powerful political position in the country, and citizens believe that their vote can have a direct impact on the direction and policies of the nation. Therefore, individuals are more motivated to participate in presidential elections compared to other forms of political engagement such as writing letters to public officials, voting in local elections, contributing money to political candidates, or attending local party meetings.

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  • 15. 

    Voter turnout tends to be highest among

    • A.

      College-educated voters

    • B.

      Working-class voters

    • C.

      African American voters

    • D.

      Young voters

    • E.

      Low-income voters

    Correct Answer
    A. College-educated voters
    Explanation
    College-educated voters tend to have higher voter turnout because they are more likely to be politically engaged, have a higher level of political knowledge, and understand the importance of participating in the democratic process. They often have a better understanding of the issues at stake and may have stronger opinions or preferences that motivate them to vote. Additionally, they may have more resources and flexibility to overcome barriers to voting, such as transportation or time constraints. Overall, their higher education level and socio-economic status contribute to their higher voter turnout.

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  • 16. 

    In response to the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (McCain-Feingold Act), the United States Supreme Court, in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010), ruled that

    • A.

      Limits cannot be placed upon candidates' contributions to their own campaigns

    • B.

      Independent campaign expenditures by corporations and unions are protected by the First Amendment

    • C.

      Limits on issue advertisements 90 days before an election are unconstitutional

    • D.

      Limits on campaign contributions by minors are constitutional under the First Amendment

    • E.

      Requiring endorsement statements in campaign advertisements is unconsitutional

    Correct Answer
    B. Independent campaign expenditures by corporations and unions are protected by the First Amendment
    Explanation
    The United States Supreme Court ruled in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010) that independent campaign expenditures by corporations and unions are protected by the First Amendment. This means that corporations and unions have the right to spend money on political campaigns independently, without limits or restrictions, as it is considered a form of free speech. This decision has been controversial as it has allowed for the rise of Super PACs and increased the influence of money in politics.

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  • 17. 

    One of the best strategies that interest groups can use to achieve their goals is

    • A.

      Pressing for changes in high-profile public policies

    • B.

      Lobbying members of Congress to make small changes in existing policy

    • C.

      Using the judiciary to invalidate federal legislation

    • D.

      Encouraging states to use their Tenth Amendment rights and ignore federal law

    • E.

      Running candidates for office

    Correct Answer
    B. Lobbying members of Congress to make small changes in existing policy
    Explanation
    Lobbying members of Congress to make small changes in existing policy is one of the best strategies that interest groups can use to achieve their goals. By directly engaging with lawmakers, interest groups can advocate for specific policy changes that align with their objectives. This approach allows them to have a direct impact on shaping legislation and influencing decision-making processes. Lobbying can involve various tactics such as providing information, building relationships, and mobilizing public support to gain the attention and support of lawmakers. By focusing on small changes in existing policy, interest groups can increase their chances of success and gradually make progress towards their larger goals.

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  • 18. 

    Since the 1960s, support for the Democratic Party has declined the most among which of the following groups?

    • A.

      Labor union members

    • B.

      Business leaders

    • C.

      African Americans

    • D.

      Native Americans

    • E.

      White Southerners

    Correct Answer
    E. White Southerners
    Explanation
    Support for the Democratic Party has declined the most among White Southerners since the 1960s. This can be attributed to several factors, including the Civil Rights Movement and the Democratic Party's support for civil rights legislation. The Democratic Party's stance on racial equality and desegregation led to a shift in support among White Southerners, who felt that their interests were not being adequately represented. This decline in support among White Southerners has had a significant impact on the political landscape in the United States.

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  • 19. 

    Which of the following is LEAST characteristic of the history of political parties in the United States during the twentieth century?

    • A.

      An increase in the number of organized interest groups

    • B.

      A increase in the influence of political action committee (PAC) money in congressional elections

    • C.

      State adoption of direct primary elections

    • D.

      The loss of party patronage power

    • E.

      The splitting of the two major parties into a multiparty system

    Correct Answer
    E. The splitting of the two major parties into a multiparty system
    Explanation
    An increase in the number of organized interest groups, an increase in the influence of political action committee (PAC) money in congressional elections, state adoption of direct primary elections, and the loss of party patronage power are all characteristic of the history of political parties in the United States during the twentieth century. However, the splitting of the two major parties into a multiparty system is least characteristic because the United States has maintained a two-party system throughout most of its history, with the Republican and Democratic parties dominating the political landscape.

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  • 20. 

    Candidates for political office use public opinion polls for all of the following purposes EXCEPT to

    • A.

      Assess recognition of the candidate's name

    • B.

      Measure voters' support for the candidate's issues

    • C.

      Bring the opposition's opinions into alignment with those of the candidate

    • D.

      Fine-tune policy stands

    • E.

      Identify key issues among the voters

    Correct Answer
    C. Bring the opposition's opinions into alignment with those of the candidate
    Explanation
    Public opinion polls are used by candidates for political office for various purposes. They use these polls to assess recognition of their name, measure voters' support for their issues, fine-tune policy stands, and identify key issues among the voters. However, they do not use public opinion polls to bring the opposition's opinions into alignment with their own. The purpose of these polls is to gather information about public opinion, not to change or align the opposition's opinions with the candidate's.

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  • 21. 

    All of the following are indications of how pervasive the two-party system is in US government EXCEPT

    • A.

      Lack of effective third parties

    • B.

      Closed primaries

    • C.

      The need for the Electoral College

    • D.

      The way in which members are assigned to Congressional committees

    • E.

      The way in which the Speaker of the House is selected

    Correct Answer
    C. The need for the Electoral College
    Explanation
    The Electoral College is not an indication of how pervasive the two-party system is in US government because it is a system used to elect the President, not a reflection of the party system. The Electoral College is a mechanism that determines the outcome of presidential elections based on the number of electors each state has, rather than the popular vote. It does not directly relate to the dominance of the two-party system in the US government.

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  • 22. 

    The major impact third political parties have on presidential elections has been to

    • A.

      Develop issues that are later adopted by the major political parties.

    • B.

      Draw enough votes from the major parties to throw the election into the House of Representatives.

    • C.

      Recruit leaders from the Democrats and Republicans to run for president.

    • D.

      Encourage a larger voter turnout.

    • E.

      Generate increased party identification among the electorate.

    Correct Answer
    A. Develop issues that are later adopted by the major political parties.
    Explanation
    Third political parties often focus on specific issues and policies that may not be getting enough attention from the major political parties. By highlighting these issues and advocating for them, third parties can influence the political discourse and force the major parties to address these concerns in order to attract voters. Over time, the major parties may adopt some of these issues as part of their own platforms in order to appeal to a broader range of voters. This shows how third parties can have a major impact on presidential elections by shaping the policy agenda of the major parties.

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  • 23. 

    Which of the following best explains why the winner of a presidential elections usually claims to have a mandate from voters?

    • A.

      The president's party often wins a majority of seats in Congress by riding the president's coattails.

    • B.

      The allocation of electoral votes in the winner-take-all system exaggerates the margin of victory.

    • C.

      Presidents are allowed to implement their legislative agendas without interference during their first term.

    • D.

      The new president is allowed to replace a significant number of justices on the Supreme Court.

    • E.

      The incoming president automatically gains control of Congress.

    Correct Answer
    A. The president's party often wins a majority of seats in Congress by riding the president's coattails.
    Explanation
    The winner of a presidential election usually claims to have a mandate from voters because the president's party often wins a majority of seats in Congress by riding the president's coattails. This means that voters who support the president's party are more likely to also support the president's legislative agenda, giving the president a perceived mandate to implement their policies. This majority in Congress allows the president to have more influence and support in passing their legislative priorities.

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  • 24. 

    Establishing the boundaries of United States congressional districts to give one party an advantage over another party is referred to as

    • A.

      Raiding

    • B.

      Apportionment

    • C.

      Reapportionment

    • D.

      Gerrymandering

    • E.

      Filibustering

    Correct Answer
    D. Gerrymandering
    Explanation
    Gerrymandering is the correct answer because it refers to the practice of manipulating the boundaries of congressional districts in order to favor one political party over another. This can be done by strategically drawing district lines to concentrate the opposing party's voters into a few districts, thus minimizing their overall influence, while maximizing the number of districts that favor the gerrymandering party. Gerrymandering is often criticized for undermining fair representation and distorting the democratic process.

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  • 25. 

    Which of the following statements about voting behavior in national elections is most accurate?

    • A.

      Men are more likely to vote than are women.

    • B.

      Blue-collar workers are more likely to vote than are professionals.

    • C.

      Those with less than a high school education are more likely to vote than are college graduates.

    • D.

      Democrats are more likely to vote than are Republicans.

    • E.

      Senior citizens are more likely to vote than are college students.

    Correct Answer
    E. Senior citizens are more likely to vote than are college students.
    Explanation
    Senior citizens are more likely to vote than are college students. This is because older individuals tend to have a higher level of civic engagement and a stronger sense of responsibility towards participating in the democratic process. They may also have more free time and be more aware of the importance of voting due to their life experiences. On the other hand, college students often face various barriers to voting, such as being away from their home state or lacking knowledge about the voting process.

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  • 26. 

    Children are most likely to adopt the party identification

    • A.

      Of their parents

    • B.

      Of the president

    • C.

      Of their friends

    • D.

      Of their teachers

    • E.

      Endorsed by the media

    Correct Answer
    A. Of their parents
    Explanation
    Children are most likely to adopt the party identification of their parents because they are heavily influenced by their parents' beliefs, values, and political views. Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children's political socialization, as they are the primary source of information and guidance for children. Through discussions, observations, and exposure to their parents' political activities, children develop a sense of loyalty and identification with their parents' political party. This process usually occurs during childhood and adolescence when children are more receptive to their parents' influence.

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  • 27. 

    The media's effect on public opinion can best be described as

    • A.

      Influencing older citizens' opinions of incumbents

    • B.

      Affecting the public's views on domestic policy only

    • C.

      Influencing which issues the public sees as important

    • D.

      Changing well-educated people's views on foreign policy

    • E.

      Influencing the public's views on controversial issues only

    Correct Answer
    C. Influencing which issues the public sees as important
    Explanation
    The media's effect on public opinion can best be described as influencing which issues the public sees as important. The media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion by deciding which topics and issues to cover extensively. Through their selection and presentation of news stories, the media can influence what the public perceives as important and worthy of attention. This can have a significant impact on public discourse, policy priorities, and the overall agenda-setting process in society.

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  • 28. 

    When people vote for some candidates from one party and other candidates form another party, it is called

    • A.

      Dealignment

    • B.

      Realignment

    • C.

      Republicanism

    • D.

      Ticket splitting

    • E.

      Caucusing

    Correct Answer
    D. Ticket splitting
    Explanation
    Ticket splitting refers to the practice of voting for candidates from different political parties in the same election. This occurs when voters choose candidates from one party for certain positions and candidates from another party for other positions. This behavior is often seen as a sign of political independence and can indicate a lack of strong party loyalty. Ticket splitting can also be a strategic decision made by voters who prefer certain candidates from different parties rather than aligning strictly with one party.

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  • 29. 

    Which of the following is most important for getting an accurate measure of public opinion in a survey?

    • A.

      Surveying only cell phone users

    • B.

      Selecting a random sample

    • C.

      Asking leading questions

    • D.

      Contacting only registered voters

    • E.

      Conducting the survey online

    Correct Answer
    B. Selecting a random sample
    Explanation
    Selecting a random sample is the most important factor for obtaining an accurate measure of public opinion in a survey. A random sample ensures that every individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected, which helps to minimize bias and increase the representativeness of the sample. This method allows for a diverse range of opinions to be included, providing a more accurate reflection of the overall public opinion.

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  • 30. 

    Interest groups use political action committees (PACs) to

    • A.

      Provide expertise to members of Congress when they are writing legislation

    • B.

      Lobby the executive bureaucracy when they are considering new rules and regulations

    • C.

      Raise and spend money on election campaigns

    • D.

      Generate research that can be used to influence public opinion

    • E.

      Hire policy experts who will promote their views in the media

    Correct Answer
    C. Raise and spend money on election campaigns
    Explanation
    Interest groups use political action committees (PACs) to raise and spend money on election campaigns. PACs are created by interest groups to collect and distribute funds for political campaigns. This allows interest groups to financially support candidates who align with their goals and policies. By raising and spending money on election campaigns, interest groups can increase their influence and attempt to shape the political landscape in their favor.

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  • 31. 

    Which of the following is true of voter turnout in the United States?

    • A.

      Three-fourths of the electorate votes in a presidential election.

    • B.

      The South votes in larger numbers than does any other region of the country.

    • C.

      Men vote in larger numbers than do women.

    • D.

      There is no relationship between the age of the voter and participation rates.

    • E.

      The voter-participation rate is one of the lowest of any industrialized nation.

    Correct Answer
    E. The voter-participation rate is one of the lowest of any industrialized nation.
    Explanation
    The given correct answer states that the voter-participation rate in the United States is one of the lowest among industrialized nations. This implies that compared to other developed countries, the United States has a lower percentage of eligible voters who actually participate in elections. This could be due to various factors such as voter apathy, lack of accessibility to polling stations, restrictive voting laws, or a general disillusionment with the political system. However, without further context or data, it is difficult to determine the exact reasons for the low voter turnout in the United States.

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  • 32. 

    Which of the following is the main reason interest groups are often successful in getting legislation passed to benefit their members?

    • A.

      It is easy to garner support from most members of Congress on any issue.

    • B.

      All members of society desire the legislation that special interests pursue.

    • C.

      It is very easy to get legislation passed in Congress.

    • D.

      A narrow constituency derives the benefits from such legislation but the costs are spread broadly across the population.

    • E.

      Interest group activity represents the democratic process at work because individual interest groups often represent more than half the population.

    Correct Answer
    D. A narrow constituency derives the benefits from such legislation but the costs are spread broadly across the population.
    Explanation
    Interest groups are often successful in getting legislation passed to benefit their members because a narrow constituency, typically composed of a specific group or industry, reaps the advantages of such legislation while the costs are distributed across the broader population. This allows interest groups to focus their efforts and resources on advocating for their specific interests, making it easier for them to gain support and influence legislators. The concentrated benefits and diffuse costs create an incentive for legislators to prioritize the interests of these groups in order to secure their support and funding for reelection campaigns.

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  • 33. 

    Civil rights activists, such as those who campaign for gay and lesbian equal rights and those who advocated for racial equality in the 1950s and 1960s, often find the most effective way to secure those rights is

    • A.

      Through mass demonstrations to raise awareness of their cause

    • B.

      Through lobbying of individual members of Congress for support on legislation

    • C.

      Through litigation in the courts to gain legal protections against discrimination

    • D.

      By launching educational campaigns to increase the level of public support for their cause

    • E.

      By persuading presidents to issue executive orders that prevent discrimination within the federal workforce

    Correct Answer
    C. Through litigation in the courts to gain legal protections against discrimination
    Explanation
    Civil rights activists often find that the most effective way to secure their rights is through litigation in the courts. This allows them to gain legal protections against discrimination, which can have long-lasting and wide-reaching effects. By taking their cases to court, activists can challenge discriminatory laws and policies, set legal precedents, and establish rights for marginalized groups. Litigation can also bring attention to the issue and raise public awareness, leading to broader support for their cause. Through the courts, activists can achieve lasting change and ensure that their rights are protected under the law.

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  • 34. 

    Which of the following groups would be most likely to support a constitutional amendment banning all abortions?

    • A.

      Conservatives

    • B.

      Libertarians

    • C.

      Independents

    • D.

      Liberals

    • E.

      Moderates

    Correct Answer
    A. Conservatives
    Explanation
    Conservatives are most likely to support a constitutional amendment banning all abortions because they generally hold traditional values and prioritize the protection of unborn lives. They tend to believe in limited government intervention and value the sanctity of life, which aligns with the pro-life stance. Conservatives often advocate for stricter regulations on abortion and are more likely to support policies that limit access to abortion services.

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  • 35. 

    When party members meet to nominate a candidate for office, they participate in which of the following?

    • A.

      General election

    • B.

      Caucus

    • C.

      Blanket primary

    • D.

      Open primary

    • E.

      Closed primary

    Correct Answer
    B. Caucus
    Explanation
    When party members meet to nominate a candidate for office, they participate in a caucus. A caucus is a meeting of party members where they discuss and debate potential candidates before selecting a nominee through a voting process. It is a more involved and interactive process compared to primaries, which are more focused on casting individual votes. Caucuses often involve discussions and negotiations among party members to build consensus and support for a particular candidate.

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Quiz Review Timeline +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Mar 20, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Mar 13, 2015
    Quiz Created by
    Ktassin
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