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

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