Political Lingo Quiz

A filibuster is a tactic often used to block a vote in the Senate.

Groups known as 527s are tax-exempt organizations that raise money for political activities, including voter mobilization efforts and issue advocacy.

Initiatives are public policy questions that are initiated by the people– usually by petition, and decided by voters at the ballot box.

Soft money is unregulated contributions to a political party but not designated for a particular candidate.

A constituent is any voter represented by a particular official. Congressional representatives are elected by and serve the constituents who live in their districts.

Political parties often gerrymander, or redistrict, voting areas to gain a political advantage.

To spin means to give an interpretation on events or information– usually to enhance or protect a person’s public image. It’s why public relations officials are sometimes known as spinmeisters.

The adoption of a platform is one of the main functions of a national party convention, where delegates often tussle over planks– or positions on issues– to put in the platform.

There’s no provision for a recall at the national level, but 19 states plus the District of Columbia permit the recall of state officials.

A sunset provision sets a bill to expire after a specified number of years.

Generally, an incumbent seeking re-election has a better chance of winning than those challenging the incumbent.

The acronym for Grand Old Party– GOP– is used as a nickname for the Republican Party.

Generally, PACs are the arms of special interest groups that are legally permitted to give money to candidates running for political office. Corporations, unions and other groups may be represented by PACs.