Linkage Institutions: Connecting Citizens to Government

Linkage Institutions

Channels through which citizens' concerns become political issues on the government's policy agenda.

Political Party

An organized group of people with similar political views who aim to influence government by electing candidates to public office.

Core Functions of Political Parties

Primary goal is winning elections, while also mobilizing and educating voters.

Mobilization of Voters

The process of encouraging citizens to participate in the electoral process.

Education of Voters

The effort by political parties to inform and educate citizens about political issues and candidates.

Interest Groups

Organizations that aim to influence public policy and decision-making on specific issues.

Lobbying

The act of attempting to influence government officials to enact or reject legislation.

Elections

Formal processes through which voters select representatives or decide on policy issues.

Political Agenda

A list of issues that are prioritized for action by political leaders.

Public Office

Positions of authority in government that are filled by elected officials.

Candidate

A person who is nominated for election to a public office.

Voter Participation

The involvement of citizens in the electoral process, including voting and campaigning.

Campaigning

The organized effort to influence voters in favor of a candidate or political party.

Grassroots Movement

An organized effort that starts from the bottom level of society and seeks to influence policy.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

A group that raises and spends money to elect or defeat candidates.

Electoral Process

The series of steps through which new leaders are selected in democracies.

Public Policy

The principles and regulations established by government to address issues.

Political Influence

The ability to affect the decisions and actions of political leaders or policy.

Candidate Campaign Strategies

Plans and tactics used by candidates to win elections.

Voter Registration

The process by which eligible citizens sign up to vote in elections.

Primary Elections

Elections held to determine a party's nominee for the general election.

General Elections

Elections where voters select candidates to fill public offices.

Incumbent

An existing officeholder seeking re-election.

Electoral College

The body that formally elects the President and Vice President of the United States.

Political Realignment

A significant change in the electoral support of parties.

Partisan Politics

Political decisions and actions that are influenced by loyalty to a political party.

Civic Engagement

The involvement of individuals in activities related to governance and community.