Political Party Identification
The percentage of registered voters identifying with political parties is declining. If current trends continue, half of American voters could identify as politically Independent within the next decade.
This change has been influenced by an information revolution that includes 24-hour television news channels and near universal access to the Internet. Easy access to news and diverse opinions has freed voters from a reliance on parties for political education. Moreover, voters no longer need political parties to vouch for the good reputation of candidates. Voters can make Judgments based on candidate media appearances and broadcast stories.
Similarly, candidates no longer rely on the party to communicate with voters or to ask for campaign contributions. Every major modern campaign includes television ads and Internet sites focused on the candidate's message and raising money.
Which statement can be made based on both the passage and the table?
- A. The increase in independent voters has strengthened the influence of Democrats on the national level.
- B. The best political campaigns of Republicans and Democrats use modern media to communicate with voters.
- C. The most recent data shows that Republicans controlled almost three times the number of state legislatures as Democrats.
- D. The decrease in party identification has strengthened the influence of Republicans in state legislatures.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B
Option B accurately reflects the information provided in both the passage and the table, highlighting the importance of modern media in effective political campaigns for both major parties. This statement emphasizes a shared strategy that transcends partisan lines, indicating a common approach to engaging voters. Option A incorrectly suggests a direct correlation between independent voters and the strengthening of Democrats, which is not supported by the data. Option C misrepresents the statistics regarding state legislature control, as the table likely shows a different ratio. Option D assumes that a decrease in party identification universally benefits Republicans, ignoring the complexities of voter behavior and preferences that the passage may address.
Option B accurately reflects the information provided in both the passage and the table, highlighting the importance of modern media in effective political campaigns for both major parties. This statement emphasizes a shared strategy that transcends partisan lines, indicating a common approach to engaging voters. Option A incorrectly suggests a direct correlation between independent voters and the strengthening of Democrats, which is not supported by the data. Option C misrepresents the statistics regarding state legislature control, as the table likely shows a different ratio. Option D assumes that a decrease in party identification universally benefits Republicans, ignoring the complexities of voter behavior and preferences that the passage may address.
Other Related Questions
Which statement identifies a purpose of Roosevelt's speech?
- A. to convince his audience that preserving the environment is as important as national security
- B. to convince his audience that preserving the environment is the responsibility of ordinary citizens
- C. to gain support for using public lands to obtain vital productive resources
- D. to gain support for a candidate who wants to preserve the environment
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: A
Option A effectively captures Roosevelt's emphasis on the interconnectedness of environmental preservation and national security. He aimed to highlight that a healthy environment is crucial for the nation's well-being and stability. Option B is incorrect as Roosevelt’s speech focuses more on broader national priorities rather than individual responsibilities. Option C misinterprets the message; while resource management is important, the speech primarily advocates for environmental preservation rather than exploitation. Option D is misleading; Roosevelt's speech is not about promoting a candidate but rather advocating for a national commitment to environmental stewardship.
Option A effectively captures Roosevelt's emphasis on the interconnectedness of environmental preservation and national security. He aimed to highlight that a healthy environment is crucial for the nation's well-being and stability. Option B is incorrect as Roosevelt’s speech focuses more on broader national priorities rather than individual responsibilities. Option C misinterprets the message; while resource management is important, the speech primarily advocates for environmental preservation rather than exploitation. Option D is misleading; Roosevelt's speech is not about promoting a candidate but rather advocating for a national commitment to environmental stewardship.
Based on the excerpt, which conclusion can be drawn about the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights?
- A. Ratification of the Bill of Rights was completed before the Constitution was drafted.
- B. Ratification of the Constitution was dependent on the passage of the Bill of Rights.
- C. Most leaders were worried that the Bill of Rights would weaken the ruling class protected by the Constitution.
- D. Many leaders were concerned that the Bill of Rights would upset the balance of powers outlined in the Constitution.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B
The conclusion that ratification of the Constitution was dependent on the passage of the Bill of Rights is supported by historical context, as many states required assurance of individual rights to approve the Constitution. Option A is incorrect because the Bill of Rights was introduced after the Constitution was drafted. Option C misrepresents the intent of the Bill of Rights; leaders were primarily concerned with protecting individual liberties rather than preserving the ruling class. Option D is also inaccurate, as the Bill of Rights aimed to safeguard citizens' rights without disrupting the balance of powers established by the Constitution.
The conclusion that ratification of the Constitution was dependent on the passage of the Bill of Rights is supported by historical context, as many states required assurance of individual rights to approve the Constitution. Option A is incorrect because the Bill of Rights was introduced after the Constitution was drafted. Option C misrepresents the intent of the Bill of Rights; leaders were primarily concerned with protecting individual liberties rather than preserving the ruling class. Option D is also inaccurate, as the Bill of Rights aimed to safeguard citizens' rights without disrupting the balance of powers established by the Constitution.
What is the main point of view expressed in this excerpt?
- A. The Cherokee Nation is equal to the United States in terms of trade and government.
- B. The Cherokee Nation is dependent on the United States for basic necessities and survival.
- C. The Cherokee Nation is dependent on the United States for guidance and protection.
- D. The Cherokee Nation is a separate state that deals with the United States as a foreign country.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C
The excerpt emphasizes the Cherokee Nation's reliance on the United States for guidance and protection, reflecting a relationship where the Cherokee seek support in navigating external challenges. Option A misrepresents the dynamics by suggesting equality in trade and government, which overlooks the power imbalance. Option B, while hinting at dependence, fails to capture the broader context of guidance and protection that the Cherokee sought. Option D incorrectly frames the relationship as one of complete separation, ignoring the interdependence that characterized their interactions with the United States.
The excerpt emphasizes the Cherokee Nation's reliance on the United States for guidance and protection, reflecting a relationship where the Cherokee seek support in navigating external challenges. Option A misrepresents the dynamics by suggesting equality in trade and government, which overlooks the power imbalance. Option B, while hinting at dependence, fails to capture the broader context of guidance and protection that the Cherokee sought. Option D incorrectly frames the relationship as one of complete separation, ignoring the interdependence that characterized their interactions with the United States.
The United States fought in World War II from 1941 to 1945. Which statement explains the peak annual inflation rate during the 1940s?
- A. Consumer demand increased due to the end of rationing.
- B. Manufacturing decreased because of less demand for weapons.
- C. Government spending increased due to national defense.
- D. Wages decreased because of competition for scarce jobs.
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C
The peak annual inflation rate during the 1940s can be attributed to increased government spending due to national defense efforts. This surge in spending stimulated the economy and raised prices as the demand for goods and services outpaced supply. Option A is incorrect; while consumer demand did rise post-rationing, it was not the primary driver of inflation during the war years. Option B is also wrong, as manufacturing actually increased during the war to meet military needs. Option D misrepresents the labor market; wages generally rose due to high demand for workers, not decreased. Thus, government spending for defense was the key factor in driving inflation during this period.
The peak annual inflation rate during the 1940s can be attributed to increased government spending due to national defense efforts. This surge in spending stimulated the economy and raised prices as the demand for goods and services outpaced supply. Option A is incorrect; while consumer demand did rise post-rationing, it was not the primary driver of inflation during the war years. Option B is also wrong, as manufacturing actually increased during the war to meet military needs. Option D misrepresents the labor market; wages generally rose due to high demand for workers, not decreased. Thus, government spending for defense was the key factor in driving inflation during this period.