AP Government and Politics Wilson: Chapter 8

Presidential and Congressional Elections  Elections in US have 2 phases Nomination and election to office  Congressional races are different from Prez races in several ways Prez races are more competitive, last longer Turnout lower in midterms ○ Changes appeal to voters MoCs can help constituents in ways president cannot MoCs can “run against DC” – how is this possible? MoCs sometimes enjoy protection/insulated from party of president ○ Coattail effect has lessened as people vote split ticket more often ○ This also illustrates weakening effects of party

Elements of Presidential Campaigns  Money – over $1 billion spent in 2008 Much spent on advertising spots (vs. visuals) What is the overall impact of TV political ads (spots) on voters?  Organization – staff to run campaign  Theme and Strategy ○ Tone – positive or negative ○ Theme Trust, competence, stay the course, change, compassionate conservatism ○ Timing – early primaries, Go for broke or hold back reserves ○ Targets – which voters? Only some change votes from one election to next.  Issues ○ Position (two sides) vs. Valence (one side, who’s better) Valence becoming more important  Televised Debates ○ Why would incumbent NOT want to debate a challenger?