Analytical Essay
A review of Figure 7.4 in the text shows that voter turnout in Presidential elections declined through much of the 20th Century. Voter turnout in midterm elections - such as the recently completed 2014 elections - is considerably lower than in Presidential election years. In an essay, describe the roles that political parties and interest groups play in mobilizing electoral participation in contemporary U.S. society and assess how individual characteristics of voters (such as socioeconomic status), electoral laws, and electoral rules influence voting likelihood.
Readings that you should consult to answer this question: Ginsberg, Lowi, Weir, Tolbert, and Spitzer, chapters 5-8.