Study Questions

  1. How and why do states differ in their electoral laws?
  2. What is the difference between the Indiana ballot and the Massachusetts ballot? What is the Australian ballot, and why did it become popular?
  3. Why do states tend to vary in regard to voter turnout? Use the comparative method to explain your answer.
  4. What are some statewide political offices that are independent of the governor's office?
  5. What are the different types of initiatives and referendums? What is a recall? How do these legislative mechanisms improve the responsiveness of state governments to citizens?
  6. How do state legislators respond to public opinion? What is the relationship between public opinion and a state's public policy?