Low voter turnout and widespread cynicism

Low voter turnout and widespread cynicism, an apathetic and politically
unknowledgeable public opinion, our rush to go to war with Iraq, our lack of
compassion for socialist solutions to help the poor, negative electoral campaigns,
porkbarrel politics, divided government and the further ideological divide between
Republicans and Democrats add up to contentious, deadlocked U.S.
policymaking. Many have argued that American politics is in crisis as we struggle
over the debt ceiling issue as we speak.

1. Do you agree that these problems constitute a crisis in America's political
system or merely partisan politics? If so, what are the major features of this
crisis? If not, what are the problems of American democracy, and why don’t they
add up to a crisis?

2. Discuss how this question applies to politics in California. Be as specific as you
can.

3. What solutions does the U.S. system of government offer? Does our system
need radical reform? In your answer, be sure to address the nature of the
American electorate (i.e. apathy and role of public opinion), the role of the power
elite, the increasing power of the federal government, and the nature of election
campaigns as well as the role of the media.