POL411 Week 1 Discussion (dq1+dq2)

POL411 Week 1 Discussion  

DQ 1 Rules of the Game

Rules of the Game. The American electoral process is conducted based a on a variety of very important and sometimes confusing rules. The rules determine who can run, when elections are held, who can vote, and where candidates can run. These rules also determine who wins. Answer the following questions:

1. What effect would changes in who can vote in primary elections have on how candidates would run their campaigns?
2. How do single-member districts and plurality rules impact third-party candidates and independent candidates?
3. How does gerrymandering affect the electoral process?

Your initial post should be at least 250-300 words in length. Support your claims with examples from required material(s) and/or other scholarly resources, and properly cite any references. Respond to at least two of your classmates’ posts by Day 7. 

DQ 2 Change and Continuity

Change and Continuity. The transformation of American campaigns is evident in many areas. The rules that govern campaigns and elections have been modified and reformed over time. The economic and political realities of the eras have been hugely influential on the American electoral process. In turn, campaign and election strategies have adapted to these changes in rules and reality. Additionally, the changes over time have greatly impacted the choices presented to American voters and political actors. Answer the following questions:

1. Discuss some of the commonalities among the four campaign eras? 
2. Describe some of the differences between the four campaign eras? 
3. What factors have been most influential in creating these commonalities and differences? 

Your initial post should be at least 250-300 words in length. Support your claims with examples from required material(s) and/or other scholarly resources, and properly cite any references. Respond to at least two of your classmates’ posts by Day 7.