AP GOVERNMENT CHAPTER 13| Compiled Q&A| Verified Solutions 2024/2025

AP GOVERNMENT CHAPTER 13| Compiled Q&A| Verified Solutions 2024/2025 What is a political party? An organization of people who share similar political beliefs and work together to influence government policy and elections. Bicameral Legislature a lawmaking body made up of two chambers or parts What are the main functions of political parties in the United States? To organize elections, mobilize voters, provide a platform of policy positions, and recruit candidates for public office. What is the difference between a major party and a minor party? Major parties dominate the political landscape, while minor parties often struggle to gain visibility and electoral success. What are the two major political parties in the United States? The Democratic Party and the Republican Party. What is the role of party platforms in elections? Party platforms outline the principles and policies that a party supports, serving as a guide for candidates and informing voters. 2 What is party realignment? A significant change in the electoral balance between the major political parties, often resulting in new coalitions and shifts in party loyalty. What is the significance of the **Third Party** in the U.S. political system? Third parties can introduce new ideas, influence major party platforms, and sometimes affect election outcomes by drawing votes away from major candidates. What is an **interest group**? An organization of people who share common objectives and actively seek to influence policymakers and political processes. How do interest groups exert influence on government? By lobbying, providing research and expertise, mobilizing members to contact legislators, and engaging in grassroots campaigns. What is the difference between an **economic interest group** and a **public interest group**? Economic interest groups seek to advance the economic interests of their members, while public interest groups advocate for broader societal issues. What is a **Political Action Committee (PAC)**? A group that raises and spends money to elect candidates or influence elections, often representing specific interests or industries. 3 How does the **Federal Election Commission (FEC)** regulate campaign finance? The FEC oversees the enforcement of campaign finance laws, including contribution limits and disclosure requirements for candidates and PACs. What is the concept of **soft money**? Unregulated donations to political parties for partybuilding activities, which were largely banned by the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002. What is the significance of **campaign finance reform**? It aims to reduce the influence of money in politics, promote transparency, and ensure fair competition among candidates. How does the media serve as a **watchdog** in the political process? By investigating and reporting on government actions and public officials, holding them accountable to the public. What is **agenda-setting** in the context of the media? The process by which the media highlights certain issues, influencing what the public perceives as important.