Campaigns and Elections

Catalog description

This course provides an overview of campaigns and elections in the United States. How can we explain the outcomes of American elections? Why do some people vote while other people do not? What strategies do candidates use to attract the support of voters, and are these strategies effective? How do national elections differ from state and local elections? What is the role of money in campaigns and elections? How do American campaigns and elections compare to campaigns and elections in other countries? These are just some of the questions addressed in this course. Through investigation of campaigns and elections, students critically analyze the actions of voters, candidates, political parties, the media, and interest groups. Students study presidential elections, congressional elections, state-level elections, and local elections. Throughout the course, the questions "Are American elections 'broken?' If so, can our election system be fixed?" are asked. Prerequisite: POL 101 , POL 102 , POL 110 , or junior standing. Offered Fall - Even Numbered Years.