civics chapter 23
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Over 18 US Citizen Registered to vote Resident of state
Convicted felons face restrictions in some states
In the past not everyone found it easy to vote. The only people that could vote for George Washington were white male property owners.
The South would continue to prevent African-Americans to vote using poll taxes and literacy tests. Poor whites were allowed to vote because of the Grandfather Clause.
VOTER REGISTRATION
Must register 25 days before election. You can register as a democrat, republican or independent.
To make it easier = Motor Voter Act = automatically registers you when you apply for drivers license.
Voters go to a polling place somewhere in their precinct. Usually a fire house or school gym
The first Tuesday after the first Monday in November
Once there you cast a vote using a BALLOT
If you can’t make it you can cast an absentee ballot
Votes counted = returns
The United States has some of the lowest voter turnout of any democracy.
My vote doesn’t count
Primary Elections General Elections Initiative Referendum Recall
Only registered members of party can vote
Any registered voter
Each state has a number of electoral votes = # of senators + Representatives.-Changes every ten years538 Total270 to win
It is possible to become president and LOSE the popular vote. In other words more people voted for the other guy.
This happened to Al Gore in 2000
Posters, Bumper stickers, pins and leaflets – get the candidates name out so people remember it
Direct Mail – sending out mail to people in your voting district – often attacking the opponent
Personal AppearancesUse of the InternetAnd the tv play big roles too
Copy the chart out on page 626
Help candidates get elected – raise money and provide advertising.
Support candidate that will promote their legislation – tied to special interest groups
Groups that provide money and support to candidates who share similar values
Person with most votes wins.
EX. Jim = 48,000 Fred = 46,000 Tom = 6,000
Must receive more than 50% to win
EX: Jim = 48,000 Fred = 46,000 Tom = 6,000
Jim = 49,000Fred = 51,000