20–27% of the AP exam. Key topics: Types of elections: primary, general, caucus, initiative, referendum, recall, Electoral College: mechanics, winner-take-all vs. proportional allocation, 270-vote threshold, faithless electors, Single-member plurality (first-past-the-post) vs. proportional representation systems, Political parties: functions, party realignment, dealignment, New Deal coalition, Southern strategy, Third parties: barriers to entry, spoiler effect, structural disadvantages, Interest groups: types (economic, public interest, ideological), tactics (lobbying, litigation, electioneering), Campaign finance: Federal Election Commission, PACs, Super PACs, 527 organizations, Citizens United v. FEC: political spending as protected speech, Voter behavior: party identification, candidate characteristics, issues, retrospective voting, Voter turnout: factors increasing/decreasing participation; demographic patterns, Voter registration laws and their effect on turnout, Linkage institutions and democratic accountability, Baker v. Carr: one person, one vote and reapportionment, Shaw v. Reno: racial gerrymandering in redistricting.
Study guide content for this unit is being prepared. Check back soon for complete lesson notes, formula sheets, and worked examples.
