PG 359 - Voting and Elections in the U.S.

This course examines voting behavior, campaigns, and elections within the context of democratic politics. In a democracy, the consent of the governed is fundamental. Candidates for public office make their case to the people during the campaign season, and the people then vote their preferences on Election Day. Thus, voting, campaigns, and elections are inherently linked as the means through which the consent of the governed is achieved. In this course, we will explore the various factors that influence the electoral process. This includes the study of campaigns (presidential and congressional), candidate strategy and behavior, campaign advertising, and campaign finance. We will also address voter choice, including ideology and partisanship, as well as influences on political participation. Attention will also be given to recent developments in the current political environment. Fall Group I Writing Option