Entry Exam Category: High School Equivalency Exams
Course: General Education Development (GED)
Exam: GED Social Studies Practice Test
Practice Question
Extract
Political Party Identification
The percentage of registered voters identifying with political parties is declining. If current trends continue, half of American voters could identify as politically Independent within the next decade.
This change has been influenced by an information revolution that includes 24-hour television news channels and near universal access to the Internet. Easy access to news and diverse opinions has freed voters from a reliance on parties for political education. Moreover, voters no longer need political parties to vouch for the good reputation of candidates. Voters can make Judgments based on candidate media appearances and broadcast stories.
Similarly, candidates no longer rely on the party to communicate with voters or to ask for campaign contributions. Every major modern campaign includes television ads and Internet sites focused on the candidate's message and raising money.
The percentage of registered voters identifying with political parties is declining. If current trends continue, half of American voters could identify as politically Independent within the next decade.
This change has been influenced by an information revolution that includes 24-hour television news channels and near universal access to the Internet. Easy access to news and diverse opinions has freed voters from a reliance on parties for political education. Moreover, voters no longer need political parties to vouch for the good reputation of candidates. Voters can make Judgments based on candidate media appearances and broadcast stories.
Similarly, candidates no longer rely on the party to communicate with voters or to ask for campaign contributions. Every major modern campaign includes television ads and Internet sites focused on the candidate's message and raising money.
Which statement can be made based on both the passage and the table?
Answer Choices
- A: The increase in independent voters has strengthened the influence of Democrats on the national level.
- B: The best political campaigns of Republicans and Democrats use modern media to communicate with voters.
- C: The most recent data shows that Republicans controlled almost three times the number of state legislatures as Democrats.
- D: The decrease in party identification has strengthened the influence of Republicans in state legislatures.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Both show candidates use TV/Internet to communicate directly, reducing party reliance