1. Today we will…
Identify why some people choose not to participate in politics.
Evaluate the extent to which people can participate.

2. Success Criteria
Summarise the reasons why some choose not participate.
Plan an essay on participation.

3. Political System and Process
This section will cover all potential essay questions related to politics in the USA

4. Some of the potential essays…
The political system provides an effective check on the government. Discuss. (20 marks)
Analyse the ways in which some groups influence decision making. (12 marks)
Analyse the political rights and responsibilities of citizens in the world power you have studied. (12 marks)
Remember that other questions may come up in the exam but we cannot predict…you have to learn the content of the course and then adapt on the day of the exam to suit the questions asked.

5. The US System of Government
Federal Government buildings: The White House (residence of the President), the Supreme Court (highest court in USA) and Congress (law making or legislative assembly).
The following slides contain details on the structure of the US Government. Although you won’t get a question asking you to describe the government, it is crucial that you have a solid understanding – you should know a lot of this from National 5.

6. The US System of Government
In 1787, the US Constitution was written. It has been enforced since 1789 and is still crucial today (although since 1787 there have been 27 amendments made to it).
The Constitution is basically a SET OF RULES by which the country is governed.
It is also referred to as the SUPREME LAW of the USA.
The first 10 amendments (changes) the constitution are known as the BILL OF RIGHTS. These outline the rights all citizens should have, including freedom of speech, which we will look at later.
Page 1 of the original US constitution

7. The US System of Government
The constitution also says that government should be split into different LEVELS. This is related to the SEPARATION OF POWERS which we will look at shortly.
Federal level – this is the government for the whole country. Passes laws and makes decisions which apply to all Americans (split into three branches).
State level – each of the 50 states has its own state government which passes laws and makes decisions which apply to that state only (structure is similar to that of federal government).
Local/County level – governments which make local decisions in relation to schools etc.
At Higher level we will focus mostly on the Federal Government

8. The US System of Government
The original articles of the Constitution explained how the US Government should be structured.
The founding fathers (the people who drafted the constitution) believed that no one person or group should ever have too much control, so they stipulated that the US government should be split into 3 BRANCHES.
Article 1 of the Constitution outlined the legislative branch (two parts of this).
Article 2 – the Executive Branch.
Article 3 – the judicial branch.
See the branches on the next slide
Page 1 of the original US constitution

9. Federal Government in the USA (The government for the whole country)
The Legislature
The Executive
The Judiciary
Explains and interprets the laws and the constitution
Makes the country’s laws
Administers the country
Congress
House of Senate
Representatives
The President and
The Vice-President
The Supreme Court
Appointed by the President
with the advice and consent of the Senate
Elect
Elect
Voters

10. The US System of Government
The US Federal Government
There are three parts to the US Federal Government:
1. The Executive is the office of the President and Vice President. The role of the President is to oversee the running of the country and suggest new laws to improve the USA.
2. The Legislative is the law making part of the Federal Government. Representatives from all 50 States meet at Congress (in Washington DC). There are two types of representatives in Congress: Senators and Congressmen/women.
3. The Judiciary is the court. The highest court in the USA is the Supreme Court to which Americans can appeal if they feel their constitutional rights have been denied. The Supreme Court also has the power to interpret laws.

11. It is said that the American Constitution is built on three great principles: compromise, compromise, compromise.
Compromise 1
Power was to be divided between the Federal (national) Government and the different states.
Compromise 2
Congress was to be made up of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives. In the Senate there would be equal representation of all the states and in contrast the HOR would have representation proportional to the population of each state.
Compromise 3
President would be elected indirectly by the people

12. The US System of Government
Federal
Principles of Government in the USA:
The Separation of Powers
The US Constitution details the way in which government must operate.
The writers of the US Constitution wanted power to be shared, so the Constitution states that there will be a ‘separation of powers’ between the Federal Government (whole of US) and each of the 50 State Governments.
For example, the Federal Government based in Washington has power over the armed forces, foreign policy and the currency.
State Governments (e.g. Texas) have power over everything not reserved for the Federal Government including education, use of the death penalty and the age for marriage or driving.
Texas State capitol building

13. The US System of Government
Principles of Government in the USA:
Checks and balances
The US Constitution includes a series of checks and balances to reinforce the separation of powers.
These checks create a balance of power, where no one branch of government has too much authority.
Congress can check the power of the President and the Supreme Court can check the power of Congress.
This ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful.

14. The US System of Government
Principles of Government in the USA:
Checks and balances
One example is that the Constitution cannot be changed unless:
three-quarters of the States agree
two-thirds of representatives in Washington agree
the President agrees.
In practice, the separation of power means that the Federal and State Governments must work together to run the country.
In addition, the three parts of the Federal Government check and balance each other.

15. The Powers of the President
Article 11 of the US Constitution defines the powers of the US President. It states those powers the President can use without Congressional approval and those where he must seek Congressional approval.
1. Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. Presidents have the responsibility for defending the USA (response to ISIS) including ordering troops overseas. However, only Congress can declare war e.g. in Iraq or Afghanistan. Treaties must also be approved by the Senate.
2. Power of appointment. The President appoints thousands of people to help run the country. These include members of the US Cabinet (e.g. Sec. of State John Kerry, etc.). However, nominations for overseas ambassadors and Supreme Court judges (Sonia Sotomayor ) must have the approval of the Senate.

16. The Powers of the President
3. Legislative Power
Every January the President speaks to Congress in the State of the Union Address. As well as reviewing the previous year, the President outlines spending plans and any proposals for legislation. Note: Presidents cannot introduce legislation, only members of Congress have this right. Congress also controls the budget.
4. Power of veto. Before legislation becomes law, Bills must be signed by the President. If, however, the President disagrees with a new law he can refuse to sign e.g. Bush vetoed Stem Cell Research Bill 2006, Child Health Bill 2007 and ban on water torture 2008.
Note: Congress has power to override the Presidential veto if a Bill is passed by two-thirds of the representatives of both Houses.

17. The Powers of the President
Powers of the President continued
Pocket veto. A ‘pocket veto’ or indirect veto is where a Bill remains unsigned by the President and there is insufficient time (i.e. less than 10 days before Congress adjourns) for Congress to reject the Presidential veto. Example: Obama returned a Bill unsigned to increase defence spending in 2009.
5. Executive Orders (EOs). The President can bypass Congress on certain occasions by issuing Executive Orders. EOs, in effect, allow the President to makes laws without Congressional approval. Under Bush, 262 Eos were issued. Obama issued 276 Eos during his 8 year term including a review of the Guantanamo detainees and the ending unlawful interrogation techniques. Between Jan 2017 and November 2017 Trump has issued 52 Executive Orders although some (referring to immigration) have been declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
Note: Congress can impeach or remove a President if they suspect any wrongdoing although use of this power this is very rare.

18. The Powers of the President Task
Find real-life examples of the following for Clinton, W. Bush, Obama and Trump:
Presidential Commander in Chief orders (Bush war on terror? Obama orders Osama dead?)
Presidential Appointments
Presidential Vetoes/Pocket Vetoes
Presidential Executive Orders
Try to include detail as you will use these examples in essays!

19. The Powers of the President
As the only person elected by all Americans, Presidents have enormous power. In particular, popular Presidents with a like-minded Congress, have used their support to increase their power.
After the 9/11 attacks, Bush extended the power of the Presidency by creating the Department of Homeland Security. In order to fight terrorism, Bush argued, it was necessary for the President to have greater powers of surveillance, arrest and detention. But with the passing of the Patriot Act (2001), some commentators argued that Presidential power had gone too far as this Act gave the Attorney General (on behalf of the President) the power to arrest anyone the authorities suspected of terrorism even if the courts disagreed.
Note: In 2005, Congress refused to renew some parts of the Patriot Act although much of it remains in place today.

20. The Powers of the President
The Supreme Court
The Supreme Court can also act as a check against the power of the President. This is because the Supreme Court has the power of judicial review and it can decide that any law passed by the President and Congress is unconstitutional and therefore it cannot be applied anywhere in the USA.
A decision of the Supreme Court cannot be appealed by any other court. Examples of Landmark rulings:
Affordable Care 2012
In June 2012 the US Supreme Court upheld the Affordable Care Act, which allowed the Federal government to force states to enforce the provisions of the Affordable Care Act, so-called "Obamacare."
“Muslim” Travel Ban 2017
President Trump attempted to issue an Executive Order banning the travel of citizens from particular, mainly Islamic, countries (such as Iraq etc) into and out of the USA. The Supreme Court overturned this as it is unconstitutional and against human rights.

21. Example
The president can propose changes in law but it is Congress to pass these changes and present laws on behalf of the president.
However the President must sign laws. If the president refuses to sign laws and uses the veto it could be difficult for Congress to pass the new law.
Having said this, if the law is passed by Congress and signed by the President, the Supreme Court can still deem it unconstitutional and prevent it from being upheld in the USA.

22. Membership of the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court- Appointments
If a Supreme Court judge retires or dies, the incumbent President can nominate a replacement. There are 9 Supreme Court Judges in total.
In August 2009 Sonia Sotomayor became the first Hispanic Justice on the Supreme Court after the Senate approved President Obama's nomination of her.
In January 2016 Obama nominated Merrick Garland to the Supreme Court. However the Republican dominated Senate refused to approve his pick and it became the longest running stand off in Presidential appointment history. Eventually Obama’s term in office came to an end and Trump has been able to nominate a candidate for the open SC space.
Elena Kagan became President Obama's second appointment to the Supreme Court. Judges though are not supposed to be partisan party appointees.

23. Executive Branch Judicial Branch
Legislative Branch
Executive Branch
Judicial Branch
Checks on the executive
Power to declare war
May override presidential vetoes
Senate approves appointments
Checks on judiciary
Senate approves federal judges
Power to initiate constitutional amendments
Checks on legislator
Vice President is the President of the Senate
Power to use veto
Power to appoint judges
Pardon power
Guardians of the constitution
Judicial review- ability to declare a law unconstitutional
Checks decisions made by the president follow the rules laid down by the constitution

25. Video Clips https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HuFR5XBYLfU – 3 branches
- Obama’s speech after death of Osama Bin Laden
– “Bushisms” – errors made by President George Bush President

26. The US System of Government
State Governments
Each State has a system of government similar to the Federal Government. For example California has:
A Governor (Jerry Brown, above) who runs the State and suggests new laws or spending plans
A legislative building with two law making bodies – the State Assembly and State Senate As with the Federal Government, the State Assembly members and State Senators must agree before decisions become law. The California Legislative meets in Sacramento - the State capital.
A State Supreme Court which is the highest court of appeal in California and interprets State laws.

27. The US System of Government
County/Municipal Governments
We won’t go into local government in detail but it is good to know some of the basics.
Below state level – most states have two further tiers of local government - county and municipal governments
In the city of Los Angeles in the state of California, there are 58 county governments and one municipal government.
The current mayor of LA is Eric Garcetti (right).
County and Municipal governments deal with local issues such as police, roads, water, schools etc.
Our equivalent would be local authorities.

28. World Powers – Essay 1
The political system provides an effective check on the government. Discuss with reference to a world power you have studied. (20 marks)
AKA – THE POWERS OF THE PRESIDENT ESSAY
In this essay, you would discuss the POWERS of the PRESIDENT and also the LIMITS TO THE PRESIDENT’S POWER (ie the Checks on the Powers of the President)
Best approach would be to take four powers of the President, and within each paragraph describe the powers and the limits (checks) on powers
In the exam this question could be worded various ways…anything that refers to powers of government, checks, limits to government etc. will probably be similar to this one.
Essay Plan is on the Blog

29. US Political parties and their support
There are two main political parties in the USA – the Democrats and the Republicans.
Both parties contains a range of people from across society.
In US elections, candidates seek to build political support across different regions and groups. In America, a candidate’s views on particular issues such as taxes, gun control or welfare are often more important than which party they actually represent.

30. The Democrats Democratic Party Support
Until the most recent election (2016) Democrat support has been strongest from the following groups:
The Poor – Those dependent on welfare or Govt. health provision (Medicaid) as Democrats more sympathetic to less well off. Many poor people live in urban areas.
Minorities – Blacks and Hispanics as the Democrats are more supportive of government programmes to support minorities. Democrats are seen as less strict on immigration.
‘Liberals’ – Those in the NE and West of the USA who are more supportive of government intervention in the economy, and of gay rights, abortion and tighter gun control.

31. The Republicans Republican Party Support
Republican Party support is usually considered the strongest amongst:
Wealthy people – The Republicans favour low taxes and limited government intervention in the economy. Many wealthy Americans live in suburban areas or in more rural States of the Mid West (Iowa) or the South (Alabama).
Whites – Although Obama won in 2008, most Whites (55%) voted for Republican McCain.
‘Conservatives’ – Republicans are more likely to be conservative on social policy i.e. anti-abortion & anti-gay, pro-gun and pro-death penalty. Note: The ‘religious right’ and the ‘bible belt’ States have grown in importance in US politics in recent years.

32. US Political parties and their support – The 2008 Elections
In 2008, the USA returned a Democrat President and Congress. In the Presidential election, Democrat Barack Obama beat Republican John McCain. In Congress, the Democrats became the main party with 56 of 100 Senators and 256 of the 435 Congressmen.
So who supported the Democrats in 2008?
65% of first time voters – Obama younger than McCain.
95% of Blacks and 70% of Hispanics; McCain had a small majority amongst Whites.
56% women and 52% men. Obama more ‘female-friendly’.
The 62% of voters who felt Obama and the Democrats were better able to handle the economic crisis.

33. US Political parties and their support – The 2012 Presidential Election
In 2012, the USA returned Democrat Barack Obama who beat Republican Mitt Romney. So who supported Obama in 2012?
Most men (52%) voted for Romney whilst most women (55%) voted Obama.
Most whites (59%) voted for Romney.
93% of African Americans voted Obama, as did 71% of Hispanics and 73% of Asians.
Obama won the young vote – 60% of year olds voted him.
Romney won the old vote – 56% of over 65s voted him.
Link at bottom gives more detailed analysis of 2012 Presidential Election.

34. Has Trump changed voting patterns?
The answer is Yes… and No!
Following the 2016 Presidential election (between Trump and Hillary Clinton), it became clear that many people had radically changed their voting patterns whilst others stayed the same.
This backs up the idea that voting in America isn’t so much about the political party but the political CANDIDATE.
Read the BBC NEWS article “Reality Check: Who voted for Donald Trump?” and take note of key stats such as:
Gender Voting breakdown
Ethnic Group Voting Breakdown
Votes based on income

35. Video Clips…
– Republican and Democrat Parties explained in basic terms
– Critique of the Two Party System…”Divide and Conquer”

36. Use the Party Profiles on the blog to help you.
1. Create a profile for each political party which includes the following information:
Name and Symbol Policy Commitments/Beliefs
Presidents Typical Supporters
Use the Party Profiles on the blog to help you.
2. Describe a typical Democrat supporter.
3. Describe a typical Republican supporter.
4. Why would some commentators argue that the 2016 Presidential election has changed voting patterns in the USA? Use statistics to back up your answer.
5. Why would many commentators argue that nothing has changed in terms of voting patterns following the 2016 Presidential election. Use statistics to back up your answer.

37. Minorities and the Political Process

38. Minorities and the Political Process
In the exam, you may be asked about “influencing the political process and opportunities for participation”.
This means you might get a question about groups which may have a lack of opportunity in terms of participating politically.
If this question comes up, you would focus on how ethnic minorities face inequalities in the US political system.

39. Minorities and the Political Process
With the election of President Obama it could be argued that a person’s ethnic background is no longer important in politics in America.
However, despite winning the election, Obama’s opponent in 2008 (McCain) polled marginally more of the total White vote than he did. In 2012, Romney, his Republican rival, again won the white vote.
Also, in many of the States of the South and Mid West, Obama attracted little support outside minority groups. Race is still, therefore, important in US elections…but to what extent?

40. Minorities and the Political Process
Historically, fewer Blacks and other minorities have turned out to vote than Whites (see graph below). In recent years, however, the number of Blacks and Hispanics registering and voting has increased.
In 2008, around 64% of Whites voted but for the first time a greater number of Blacks voted (74%). In addition, 44% of Hispanics and 29% of Asians also cast their vote. Why?
Obama – For the first time in history a non-White candidate was nominated by one of the two major parties. 95% of Blacks voted for Obama along with 66% of Hispanics. Obama was also seen by enough Whites as someone who would unite the country and bring economic stability.

41. Minorities and the Political Process
Minority Representation in the US Cabinet – Obama’s cabinet
When President, Obama ensured that there were a number of people from ethnic minority backgrounds in the US Cabinet including:
Ken Salazar (Hisp.) – Sec. of the Interior (above)
Eric Holder (Black) – Attorney General
Hilda Solis (API) – Secretary of Labor
Gary Locke (API) – Secretary of Commerce
Steve Chu (API) – Secretary for Energy
Eric Shinseki (API) – Secretary of Veteran’s Affairs

42. Representation in the US Cabinet – Trump’s cabinet.
Just 4 women
Just 4 ethnic minority members.
Trump’s cabinet contains more white men than the previous 6 Presidents.

43. Minorities and the Political Process
Overview of the 113th Congress
The 113th US Congress was the 2014 meeting of the legislature of the US Federal Government. However, although minority representation improved in Congress, Blacks, Hispanics and Asians remain under-represented in the US Congress. Most lawmakers are white men.
Minority Representation in 113th Congress
Black Senators - 1 out of 100 – Tim Scott, below (first Black Senator since 1979), Black Congressmen/women - 42 out of 435.
Hispanic Senators 3; Congressmen 29.
API Senators 1; Congressmen 10.
Native American Congressmen - 2

44. 114th Congress: further diversity
This Congress began in January 2015 (elected Nov 2014)
Overall, non-whites (including blacks, Hispanics, Asian/Pacific Islanders and Native Americans) made up 17% of the Congress, but that is below these groups’ 38% share of the nation’s population.
This is an improvement – the 107th Congress took office in 2001 and minorities only accounted for 12% of Congress

45. 115th Congress – the most diverse Congress ever
House of (435) Representatives
Senate
(100)
Total
Hispanic
35 (7.5%)
4 (4%)
39 (7.3%)
Black
46 (9.8%)
50 (9.3%)
Asian
12 (2.7%)
3 (3%)
15 (2.8%)
Native American
2 (0.5%)
0 (0%)
2 (0.4%)
Women
84 (19.3%)
21 (21%)
105 (19.6%)
Men
351 (80.7%)
79 (79%)
430 (80.4%)

46. Minorities and the Political Process – The Supreme Court and Elsewhere
There are nine Supreme Court judges in total. Until recently, only one was from a minority group – Judge Clarence Thomas. However, the first Hispanic Supreme Court judge was recently appointed - Sonia Sotomayor.
There have only ever been four Black State Governors including NY State’s David Paterson.
There are currently 3 Hispanic American Governors and 1 Asian American Governor:
Susana Martinez (Rep.) – New Mexico
Brian Sandoval (Rep) – Nevada
Chris Sununu (Rep) – New Hampshire
David Ige (Dem) - Hawaii

47. African-Americans in Congress
Collectively called the Black Caucus
Special interests as a group – look out for rights of African Americans
Currently all Democrats
Collectively, this group could deliver around 20% of all votes cast in the House of Representatives if all Reps voted the same way - Very influential
Examples - Karen Bass, Cedric Richmond. 

48. Hispanics in Congress Examples -Nydia Velázquez, Jim Costa
The Congressional Hispanic Caucus is dedicated to voicing and advancing, through the legislative process, issues affecting Hispanics and Latinos in the United States and Puerto Rico.
Currently all Democrats.
Republican Hispanics belong to a group known as the Congressional Hispanic Conference. They are divided over issues of policy, not rights for Hispanic Americans.
Examples -Nydia Velázquez, Jim Costa

49. Task: Representation of Minorities
Describe ethnic minority representation in the Congress elected in November 2014.
Describe ethnic minority representation in the Congress elected in November 2016.
Describe the differences between the Obama cabinet and Trump cabinet.
Why is the lack of diversity in the Trump cabinet concerning, especially given growing diversity in Congress?
Explain the purpose of the Congressional Black Caucus.
Explain the purpose of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus.

50. Video Clips…
– 2012 presidential election – end of the “White Establishment”?
– analysis of 2012 election by ethnicity

51. FACTUAL ARTICLE ALERT
Read the article above which highlights important voting statistics for the 2016 Presidential election.

52. Possible Exam Question
To what extent are some citizens in a world power you have studied disadvantaged politically?
20 marks

53. Possible Answers Answers may refer to:
Minority groups are less likely to register or to vote in elections but gap is closing. Hispanics made up 10% total vote Impact in ‘swing states’ of Colorado and Nevada.
As many as 14 million minorities are illegal and are not allowed to vote, therefore their potential to influence politics is almost zero.
Most Blacks and Hispanics vote Democratic 2012 – 93% Blacks voted for Obama, 71% Hispanics. 60% Whites overall voted for Romney. Similarly, in 2016, despite Trump winning, most Blacks and Hispanics still voted for the Democratic candidate (Hillary Clinton)
White and Asian voters more mixed; Whites marginally favoured Republicans in 2008 and 2012.
Greater representation of minority groups within Democratic Party at all levels. Republican party is lagging behind in terms of representing minorities. Currently 0 members of the Congressional Black Caucus are members of the Republican party.

54. Possible Answers
Influence of Black Caucus and Hispanic Caucus in Congress is growing. Currently hold about a 5th of voting power in the House of Reps.
Minorities make up 30%+ of US population and climbing; for presidential election, minority voters often concentrated in key ‘swing states’ giving disproportionate influence in those states (eg California, Texas, New York and Florida.) but a lack of influence in the rest of the country.
Blacks 13% US population; Hispanics 19%; Asians 5.9%. Growing importance of Hispanic vote in closely divided states of Colorado, New Mexico, California, Arizona & Nevada in relation to presidential electoral college votes.

55. Possible Answers Other factors affecting voting in the US include:
Wealthier people of all ethnic minorities more likely to favour Republicans; poorest more likely to vote Democrat (if they do vote)
issue voting inc. the economy/ unemployment, Obama’s healthcare proposals, etc.
image of candidate Obama and McCain (age, experience); Obama and Romney (experience, background)
Regionality: North East/West traditionally more democratic and liberal; South and Mid-West Republican and socially conservative
Gender: females more likely to vote for candidate sympathetic to women’s issues/poorest in society.
traditionally Democrats more interventionist; Republicans much less so.

56. Exemplar Intro & Paragraph
(Essay Intro starter) Many citizens of the USA are politically disadvantaged due to the fact the belong to an ethnic minority or are female… Members of ethnic minority groups are far less likely to register to vote in the USA than White Americans. This can often be linked to language barriers for many Hispanic and Asian voters who cannot access the registration process easily as English is not their first language (K). This then leads to less actual voters. In 2012, Hispanics made up just 10% of voters despite making up roughly 19% of the population (A). However, evidence suggests that voter turnout amongst Hispanics and Asians in America is improving; in the 2016 Presidential election about 5 million Asians voted in 2016, up from 3.8 million in 2012 (K). Although there is no concrete reason for this trend, it can be linked to a increased feeling amongst ethnic minority voters in “swing” states that their votes make a clear difference (A). Therefore, it is clear that although many ethnic minority citizens remain politically disadvantaged in the USA due to the complex registration and voting process, some small progress has been made in recent years (E).

57. Rights and Responsibilities in the USA

58. Rights and Responsibilities in the USA
This could come up in the exam, e.g.:
Analyse the political rights and responsibilities of citizens in the world power you have studied. (12 marks)
Best approach is to look at different rights and examine the extent to which they exist and also the responsibilities that go along with them.

59. Rights and Responsibilities
The rights of people in America are an important aspect of the American Dream
As mentioned before, the rights of all Americans are enshrined in the constitution, especially in Amendments 1-10 which are called the Bill of Rights

60. The US Constitution and the Bill of Rights

61. The Bill of Rights: The Constitution's First 10 Amendments
As you watch, summarise the US Constitution’s first 10 amendments on the following slide of your hand-out. If you don’t watch the clip…research at home using the internet and take notes about the Bill or Rights.
This link takes you to the Education Portal website. This clip explains the Bill of Rights

62. The Bill of Rights: The Constitution's First 10 Amendments

63. Rights and Responsibilities
The right to vote e.g. for the President
Use your right to vote on election day
The right to stand for election e.g. as a Senator
If elected, you must listen to the opinions of people you represent
Freedom of religion
Allow others to practice their religion
Freedom of speech
Allow others to have their own ideas and points of view
The right to protest e.g. about gun control
Protest peacefully
The right to a fair trial
Help others get a fair trial

64. Political Rights and Responsibilities
Americans also have political rights and responsibilities.
The next slide has a list of those political rights and the responsibilities that go with them.

65. Political Rights and Responsibilities
American Example
Responsibility
Vote in elections
Federal, State and County/Local level. e.g. can vote in Presidential elections at Federal level government
To use the vote and do so in a considered way
Join a political party
Republicans and Democrats
To respect the views of others from different parties
Stand as a candidate for election
President, Member of the House of Representatives, Senator, Mayor
If elected, you must listen to the views of people that you represent

66. Political Rights and Responsibilities
American Example
Responsibility
Protest
For gun ownership e.g. National Rifle Association (NRA)
Protest peacefully and obey the law
Join an interest group
Greenpeace (worldwide group)
To obey the law when protesting
Free speech
Criticise the work of Federal, State and County/Local level government e.g. on Obama’s health care reforms
Allow others to express their opinions

67. Analyse Question
Analyse the political rights and responsibilities of citizens in the world power you have studied. (12 marks)
Political rights include those enshrined in the Bill of Rights.
You can also use notes from “How Democratic is the USA” so that you can give limitations to the rights of Americans.
Paragraph example…
Vote in elections – e.g. Presidential etc.

68. Right to Vote Can vote in various elections – federal, state and local
Vote for President every 4 years, e.g – Barack Obama (Democrat) vs. John McCain (Republican)
2012 – Barack Obama vs. Mitt Romney
Over 1 million elected posts in the USA
Responsibility – Use your vote in a considered way
Analysis – talk about whether the right to vote gives citizens a real voice, can they have an impact on elections, on decisions about the country? Are there limitations? Is there enough choice at US elections? (i.e. Federal elections are usually between only two parties – Democrat and Republican)

69. Right to Protest First Amendment of Constitution, Bill of Rights
Right to peaceful assembly and petition
Examples of protests – Occupy Wall Street interest group protests against banks following recession (2008-present)
Many protests after Obama led federal government bailed out banks with taxpayer money
NRA – protest about Americans right to own a gun – link to second amendment.
Brady campaign protest for more gun control
Responsibility – Protest peacefully (expand)
Analysis – talk about whether the right to protest gives citizens a real voice, can they have an impact on decisions about the country? Are there limitations? Do protests actually work? Do they achieve anything?

70. Stand for Election and Join a Party
Could join various parties – Republican, Democrat, Greens, Libertarians, National Socialist Movement etc.
Rules to stand for president? – must have been born in USA, over 35, have lived in USA for past 14 years
Rules to be Senator – lived in US for last 9 years, at least 30 years old, resident of the state you are running for
Joining parties – take part in primary elections, party conventions, e.g. join Democrats and take part in the Democratic National Convention. Democrats have about 43 million registered members.
Expensive to run – Obama spent over $1 billion to become president in 2008 and 2012
Analysis – Does this mean that ordinary Americans can have an impact in decision making? Is it fair that not all Americans can stand? Can politicians really make a difference or is there too much corruption? Enough choice of parties?

71. Right to Free Speech An important right – first Amendment etc.
Americans can protest against government – e.g. Obama Administration
Opponents of Obamacare – should healthcare be subsidised for poorer Americans?
Modern developments – Facebook, Twitter, social media – should Americans be allowed to say what they want online?
Edward Snowden – former CIA analysts who was a “whistle blower” – revealed state secrets and had to flee the USA or face life in prison. Did he have freedom of speech?
Analysis – Is it good that Americans can say what they want? Discuss responsibilities that go with this…e.g. don’t incite violence. Violence following Michael Brown shooting in 2014…should people be allowed to say what they want if this is the result

72. Participation

73. Ways Citizens can Participate
Voting - On election day people can participate by turning out to vote for the Presidential candidate of their choice.
e.g. In federal elections, you vote for the President every 4 years and Congress every 2 years.

74. Ways Citizens can Participate
Stand as candidates - For example they could stand for Congress or even President.
Over 1 million positions available from President down to dog catcher!

75. Ways Citizens can Participate
Join a political party – Democrats or Republicans
Being a party member lets them take part in the primary elections where you can choose your preferred candidate for President.
For example, Democrats tend to be supported by the poor, unemployed and ethnic minorities.
Republicans are more closely linked to the rich, big business and the middle class.

76. Ways Citizens can Participate
Campaigning - Party members can get involved in election campaigns by handing out leaflets, attending party rallies and fundraising. For example, a citizen could go door to door handing out leaflets in support of the Republican Party.

77. Ways Citizens can Participate
Join a Pressure group or Interest Group – these are groups which share similar views about something
For example, the National Rifle Association (NRA) defends the right of American citizens to own and carry guns for self defence and sporting purposes. They are a powerful group with many supporters within government

78. Political Participation in the USA – Background Knowledge
Before you can vote in the USA you must be registered to vote.
In the 2012 Presidential election 65% of the total population was registered to vote (less than that actually voted on the day).
Black and Hispanic voters are less likely to register, although there has been an increase in recent years. Turnout is therefore quite low.

79. Voter turnout
Voter turnout is affected by whether or not it is a Presidential election year.
The turnout is always higher in Presidential election years than it is for mid term elections.
The TV coverage of the election of a President obviously increases voter awareness and interest. There is significantly less interest in only electing a Congressman/ woman or State officials.

80. Why is voter registration so low?
The registration procedure can be complicated.
Some groups feel that voting is a waste of time.
In some rural areas it might be difficult to get to the polling station.
Many people are happy with the way the government is run.
Many are illegal immigrants and not qualify to vote.
Please go into detail/ explain each of these points to the pupils.

81. Low turnout in US elections – Why?
Numerous elections are held for many different posts and people can be put off voting because it happens so often.
The registration form can be long and complicated and it, itself, can be a barrier to voting especially if certain groups are not well educated enough e.g. Blacks and Hispanics.

82. Low turnout in US elections – Why?
The ballot paper is often long and complicated and some voters might find it confusing, especially if they don’t have a decent level of education.
A lot of people believe that voting will not change their lives and so they don’t vote e.g. Many blacks and Hispanics - poor life chances. Live in poor areas e.g. ghettoes with poor schools and housing. Feel that voting makes no difference.

83. Low turnout in US elections – Why?
Many Hispanics are illegal immigrants and so do not qualify, under the constitution, to vote.
TV coverage may affect turnout. When the polling stations are closing in the Eastern states like New York people are still going to vote in western states like California because they are at least 5 hours behind. If TV stations announce that one side is going to win easily, those voters in the west may decide not to bother voting as the see the result as already decided.

84. Possible Exam Question
Evaluate the ways that citizens of a world power you have studied can participate politically. 12 marks
Analyse the ways in which citizens’ views are represented within the political system 12 marks

85. USA Participation Facts 1
Turnout in 2012 US Presidential election was 54.9% (down from 57.1% in 2008) – pretty low…and it’s much lower than this for smaller elections. Does this show that perhaps many Americans don’t see the value of voting?
Voting does create change though – in 20th the Presidency and control of Congress has switched constantly between the two big parties. Obama (2009-present) – Democrat, George W. Bush ( ) – Republican, Clinton ( ) – Democrat, George H. W. Bush ( ) - Republican
Republican Party – 30.7 million members, Democrat Party – 43.1 million members

86. USA Participation Facts 2
Campaigning – e.g. A supporter of the Democrat Party might support a local candidate running for Senator by handing out leaflets, attending rallies, helping to organise fundraising events. For example, in 2012, Democrat and Republican supporters each raised over $1billion for their parties which would go towards supporting their own candidates campaigns for election or re-election.
The NRA have a “Political Victory Fund” which it uses to give funding to candidates in return for their support on gun ownership.

87. In the 2010 midterm elections, the NRA endorsed candidates in approximately two-thirds of congressional races and out of those endorsed, 80% won their respective seats.
In addition, the NRA also operates a rating system where it ranks politicians based on their voting record on gun issues.
The rating system ranges from “A” for candidates possessing an excellent voting record on gun rights to “F” meaning true enemy of gun rights.
Through its rating system, the NRA has solidified its influence in the halls of Congress by holding politicians accountable by their voting records in gun policy.
Some of the biggest NRA supporting politicians are Senator John McCain (Republican), Representative Ron Paul (Republican), Representative Michele Bachmann (Republican) and John Boehner (Republican).

88. Interest groups in the USA

89. Interest Groups in the USA
Another way that Americans can participate in US politics is by joining an Interest Group.
Interest groups try to use their influence to persuade the public to put pressure on politicians either to change or not to change the law.
Interest groups use many methods to get their views heard.

90. Methods used by Interest Groups
Telephone campaigns – this is where supporters of the interest group phone people to influence them to sign petitions, write to the President etc.
Mailing Campaigns – The Interest Group will write letters or send s to get people to join and support them.

91. Methods used by Interest Groups
Websites - that will give interested people details of what the interest group stands for and its campaigns.
Leaflets – will be handed out to members of the public to inform them who the group are, what they stand for, campaigns they are involved in and how the public can get involved.

92. Methods used by Interest Groups
Campaign rallies, meetings and demonstrations – these attract publicity as the groups go out and march on the streets. The media come along and cover the story and give publicity to the Interest Group. This spreads the message of what they stand for.
Lobby Politicians – This is where members of the Interest groups will go to the State or Federal Government and speak directly to the politicians. Some Interest Groups give money to politicians so that the will support the group once they are elected.

93. Examples of Interest Groups in the USA
American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) – Aims to advance the interests of the over 50s in issues such as healthcare and pensions.

94. Examples of Interest Groups in the USA
Americans for Immigration Control (AIC) – Aims to reduce immigration to the USA, to deport illegal immigrants and to end all public programmes that help non-citizens.
– “Americans take action” clip by the Americans for Immigration Control group
– “Borders out of control” by the Americans for Immigration Control group

95. Examples of Interest Groups in the USA
American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) – Works to promote individual rights for freedom in the USA.

96. Examples of Interest Groups in the USA
National Council of la Raza – Aims to reduce discrimination against Hispanics.

97. Examples of Interest Groups in the USA
National Rifle Association (NRA) – aims to support the right of citizens to own guns and to block attempts to reduce gun control in the USA.
– brief history of the NRA
– NRA advert
– why is the NRA so powerful?

98. Examples of Interest Groups in the USA
Coalition to Stop Gun Violence (CSGV) – Aims to reduce death and injury caused by gun availability.

99. How Democratic is the USA?

100. How Democratic is the USA?
In the exam, you might be asked about the extent to which the USA is democratic.
The Bill of Rights which we have looked at previously details the rights US citizens are supposed to have.
However, the following slides contain criticisms of US democracy.
If an essay comes up on this topic, be sure to give both sides.

101. Possible Questions
To what extent can a world power you have studied be considered democratic? 20 marks
For a world power you have studied…Evaluate the extent to which democracy exists. 12 marks

102. Criticisms of US “Democracy”
Voter apathy – low turnout
Difficulties with voter registration
Lack of choice of political parties
Criticisms of US Democracy
Lack of progress for minorities
Freedom of speech - Treatment of Edward Snowden
Campaign Finance – corrupt?
Illegal wars – Iraq?

103. Voter Registration
Like in the UK, Americans must be registered if they want to vote in elections
Sometimes this can be difficult and so many potential voters are unable to vote
Only 51% of Hispanic potential voters are registered in the USA
This may be due to language barriers as Spanish rather than English is some people’s first language
This is certainly a limitation of democracy in the USA as many Americans are unable to vote.

104. Lack of choice of parties
There are only 2 main parties in the USA – the Republicans and the Democrats (a “two party system”)
This means that in most US elections there are only two real candidates – one from each party.
This does not offer the US voter much choice and because these parties are so dominant it could be argued that it is undemocratic.
Third strongest party is the Libertarian Party – not a force in US politics.
Some smaller groups have broken from the main parties so that their different views can be heard, for example the Tea Party group is a right-wing group associated with the Republican Party.

105. Campaign Finance – Corrupt?
Campaign finance is a controversial issue in the US
This is about the money which the Democrats and Republicans raise in order to fund their campaigns.
Especially significant in presidential elections
In the 2012 election, President Obama raised $1.2 billion on his campaign and his rival Mitt Romney raised and $1.18 billion.
This suggests that you can “buy your way” into the White House…which is undemocratic.

106. Campaign Finance – Corrupt?
Also, the two parties receive huge donations from individuals and companies.
Sometimes the Republican Party are accused of being “too cosy” with big Oil Companies like Shell.
In 2010, the big oil companies in the US donated £21.8 billion to the Republican Party.
This suggests that companies are expecting something back in return so are bribing politicians to make laws which favour oil companies.

107. Illegal wars - Iraq
The 2003 invasion of Iraq, authorised by US President George Bush, have since been alleged to have been an illegal war.
The invasion was not authorised by the United Nations (UN) and so America broke international law by getting involved.
Hundreds of American soldiers have been killed or wounded in the conflict since 2003 but perhaps they should never have been sent there.
It could be argued that this is a limitation of US democracy as American citizens have been sent to fight and die in a war which many people think should never have taken place.

108. Treatment of Edward Snowden – Freedom of Speech?
In 2013, a computer specialist called Edward Snowden who worked for the CIA leaked classified documents to the press.
It has been called the most significant leak of classified material in US history
He gave documents to newspapers such as the Washington Post which showed that the US government had a global surveillance operation where millions of people’s telephone calls, s and internet activities were being monitored and recorded.
Many people criticised him for breaking US law but others see him as a hero because he informed the public about things the government were doing that he thought were wrong.
It could be argued then that a limitation of US democracy is that the government is able to keep secrets from the public and prosecute anyone that reveals them – against freedom of speech?
Snowden fled to Russia where he now lives and will almost certainly go to prison if he ever returns to the USA

109. Voter apathy – low turnout
It could be argued that democracy is limited in the US because millions of Americans do not bother to vote.
Only 57.5% of Americans voted in the 2012 Presidential election.
It could be argued that this election was not fully representative of the American public.
The reasons for not voting may be because of voter apathy (not caring) and also because of the language barrier that Hispanic voters are faced with.
In addition, many Americans see politicians as corrupt and do not thing their vote will change anything.
Turnout in local elections and state elections is significantly lower in many states such as Hawaii.
Perhaps this is a limitation of US democracy as not all Americans actually take part.

110. Lack of Progress for minorities
You can also refer back to your notes on ethnic minorities for this section.
The fact that some minority groups are under-represented and have been for a long time is a possible criticism of US democracy…but on the flip side you could also talk about how progress has been made – i.e. Barack Obama is the first ethnic minority President etc.

111. Is the USA Democratic or not?
The table on the following slide could be used to help you answer the following question:
For a world power you have studied…Evaluate the extent to which democracy exists. 12 marks

112. Democratic Undemocratic
Rights guaranteed in Constitution (Bill of Rights)
Freedom of speech – Edward Snowden, CIA spying on citizens
Able to vote for representatives in elections at local, state and federal level. E.g. 1 million posts from president to dogcatcher
Launching illegal wars? Iraq 2003 – not sanctioned by UN. Many US citizens dead or injured
Right to protest – pressure groups…e.g. the NRA. Allowed to criticise government
Two party system – Only worth voting Democrat or Republican
Right to a fair trial – legal rights in court. e.g. right to an attorney
Patriot Act – police/FBI can hold suspected terrorists without charge for 90 days – against civil liberties? Human rights? Unconstitutional?
Anyone (of age) can stand as a candidate in elections…male, female, black, white etc…
Voter apathy – turnout is very low (58% in 2012 Presidential election) – people don’t care about government – don’t think voting makes a difference?
Checks and balances…balance of power. No one part of federal government becomes too powerful
Need money to become president or representative – no presidents from poor backgrounds. Campaign finance.
Freedom of religion, assembly etc…
Corruption – e.g. oil companies/private health care donations to Republican Party. Representatives “bought” by companies – get “cosy” jobs after leaving politics