MCAP Review 9: Elections and Campaigns

What is the main reason that fundraisers are important for a candidate for public office?

• To help pay for the needs and wants of citizens

• To provide personal income for the candidate during a campaign

• To guarantee the candidate wins the election

• To help pay for advertising and personal appearances

Answer explanation

Campaign fundraising is to help the candidate win.

If they win, they will use tax revenue (not campaign funds) to help the people.

Candidates can not spend the money on themselvs.

The primary purpose of a political action committee (PAC) is to

• Keep citizens informed about political issues

• Monitor the actions of elected officials

• Promote laws designed to improve the economy

• Raise money for political campaigns

Why would political candidates most likely use digital communications during election campaigns?

• To save money on campaign posters

• To share ideas directly with voters

• To avoid participating in political debates

• To hide information from the mainstream media

What is one benefit of an open primary?

• It allows those not associated with any particular political party to vote

• It allows those who have not registered to vote to have a voice in the election

• It limits voter choice to the candidates of two main political parties

• It expands voting to those under 18 years of age

Answer explanation

The purpose of primary elections is to pick the strongest candidates to represent the two main parties in the general (main) election.

In a closed primary, only party members can vote.

In an open party, any citizen over 18 can vote.

Which argument best supports a policy of open primaries before the general election?

• Political parties would have greater influence in local races.

• Candidates would make fewer promises to special interest groups.

• Independents would have greater influence in candidate selection.

• Increased visibility of state races would encourage voter registration.

Answer explanation

Independents are not members of either party (Democrats or Republicans).

What is one advantage of a two-party system when compared to a one-party system?

• more efficient (faster) decisions

• faster economic growth

• tougher enforcement of laws

• free and fair elections (democracy)

Answer explanation

In a political system with 2 or more parties, voters have a real choice.

In a one-party system (like China), there is no choice, so there is no democracy.