Question

The use of direct primaries instead of the convention system in selecting presidential candidates result in which of the following?

I. A weakening of party control over nominations
II. A reduction in the costs of election campaigns
III. An increase in the number of people involved in the choice of candidates
IV. An increase in voter turnout in midterm elections

(A) I and III only
(B) II and IV only
(C) III and IV only
(D) I, II, and III only
(E) I, II, III, and IV

Answer 1

The use of direct primaries in selecting presidential candidates weakens party control and increases public involvement in candidate selection, identified as I and III only.

Step-by-step explanation:

The use of direct primaries has resulted in a weakening of party control over nominations, as it moved the power to choose candidates from party leaders and conventions to the voters. This increases democratic participation by allowing more people to be involved in the selection of candidates. However, it does not necessarily reduce the costs of election campaigns nor increase voter turnout in midterm elections; in fact, campaigns may become longer and more expensive, and primary elections do not have a direct effect on the turnout for midterm elections.

Therefore, the correct answer to the question is (A) I and III only: A weakening of party control over nominations and an increase in the number of people involved in the choice of candidates.

Answer 2

The most accurate answer is:

(A) I and III only

The use of direct primaries instead of the convention system in selecting presidential candidates can have several effects. Let's analyze each statement:

I. A weakening of party control over nominations:

- Direct primaries allow a broader spectrum of party members to participate in the candidate selection process, which can reduce the influence of party leaders and elites. Therefore, statement I is likely true.

II. A reduction in the costs of election campaigns:

- Direct primaries may not necessarily reduce campaign costs. In fact, primary elections can be expensive due to the need for candidates to campaign in multiple states. Therefore, statement II is not always true.

III. An increase in the number of people involved in the choice of candidates:

- Direct primaries directly involve a larger number of party members and voters in the candidate selection process compared to closed conventions. Therefore, statement III is likely true.

IV. An increase in voter turnout in midterm elections:

- The selection method for presidential candidates, whether direct primaries or conventions, may not have a direct impact on voter turnout in midterm elections. Turnout in midterms is influenced by various factors, including the political climate, issues at stake, and the competitiveness of races. Therefore, statement IV is not directly related to the selection method for presidential candidates.

Now, let's consider the options:

(A) I and III only: This option matches statements I and III, which are both likely true.

(B) II and IV only: This option matches statements II and IV, but statement II is not necessarily true.

(C) III and IV only: This option matches statements III and IV, but statement IV is not directly related to the selection method for presidential candidates.

(D) I, II, and III only: This option includes statement II, which is not necessarily true.

(E) I, II, III, and IV: This option includes all statements, but as explained, statement II and statement IV are not directly related or not necessarily true.