| legitimacy | A characterization of elections by political scientists meaning that they are almost universally accepted as a fair and free method of selecting political leaders. When legitimacy is high, as in the US even the losers accept the results peacefully |
| referendum | A state level method of direct legislation that gives voters a chance to approve or disapprove proposed legislation or a proposed constitutional amendment. |
| initiative petition | A process permitted in some states whereby voters may put proposed changes in the state constitution to a vote if sufficient signatures are obtained on petitions calling for such referendum |
| suffrage | The legal right to vote |
| political efficacy | A process permitted in some states whereby voters may put proposed changes in the state constitution to a vote if sufficient signatures are obtained on petitions calling for such referendum |
| civic duty | The belief that one's political participation really matters—that ones vote can actually make a difference |
| voter registration | A system adopted by the states that require voters to register well in advance of election day. A few states permit election day registration |
| Motor Voter Act | Passed in 1993 this act went into effect for the 96 elections. It requires states to permit people to register to vote at the same time they apply for their drivers license |
| mandate theory of elections | The idea that the winning candidate has a mandate from the people to carry out his or her platforms and politics. |
| policy voting | Electoral choices that are made on the basis of the voters' policy preferences and on the basis of where the candidates stand on policy issues |
| electoral college | A unique American institution created by the Constitution, providing for the selection of the president by electors chosen by the state parties |
| retrospective voting | - |