SMITH 2026/2027 ACTUAL QUESTIONS
WITH VERIFIED ANSWERS.
1) How do most people participate in the political system -
correct answer-Political participation includes voting, running
for office, participating in marches or demonstrations, giving
money, attending rallies, writing letter or emails, or discussing
issues with friends
2) What is a rational voter - correct answer-A "rational" voter is
one who will vote only if the personal benefits outweigh the
costs
3) Know who votes and who does not - correct answer-Women
are more likely to vote than men, Socioeconomic: High
education/income means more likely to vote. Partisan
competition related explanations: High turnout in swing states
Media predicting winners early explanation: Discourages later
voters
4) Why do some states have higher voter turnout? - correct
answer-Voter registration differs significantly across states,
same day registration (also election day registation) vs. 15-30
, days in advance, Online, mail, ID, location, race, political
ideology, Voter turnout rates are higher in "swing" or
"battleground" states (their vote "counts" more)
5) How could voter turnout be increased? - correct answer--
Secure convenient locations
-Secure larger venues
-More voting machines (lines will be shorter), Better, more
efficient workers, Shorter & better designed ballots
6) Who or what determines voter qualifications? - correct
answer--State determines voter qualifications. Generally
includes voter eligibility and verification (IDs), voting locations
and ease of voting, online Internet registration, ballot requests
and voting.
8) Know the responsible party model - correct answer-1.
Develop and clarify alternative policy positions for the voters
2. Educate the people about the issues and simplify choices for
them
3. Recruit candidates for public office who agree with the
parties' policy positions
4. Organize and direct their candidates' campaigns to win office