AP U.S. Government and Politics Flashcards: Congressional Elections
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
A sitting member of Congress is running for re-election. Which of the listed factors specifically addresses the advantage they may have?
The incumbency advantage phenomenon is the factor that specifically addresses the advantage a current officeholder has in a congressional election.
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A sitting member of Congress is running for re-election. Which of the listed factors specifically addresses the advantage they may have?
The incumbency advantage phenomenon is the factor that specifically addresses the advantage a current officeholder has in a congressional election.
What is the overall takeaway regarding the processes and outcomes of congressional elections?
The key takeaway is that the processes and outcomes are not random; they are affected by a specific set of factors including incumbency, primary types, and election cycles.
Closed Primary
A closed primary is a type of primary election process that influences who is selected as a candidate in a U.S. congressional election.
In which two types of general elections are congressional seats contested?
Congressional seats are contested in both presidential general elections and midterm general elections.
What is the incumbency advantage phenomenon?
It is a phenomenon that affects the process and outcomes in U.S. congressional elections, often favoring the current officeholder.
If a congressional election occurs in a year without a presidential race, what type of election is it?
This is a midterm election, a type of general election that affects the process and outcomes of U.S. congressional elections.
List the four major factors identified as affecting U.S. congressional elections.
The four factors are the incumbency advantage phenomenon, open and closed primaries, caucuses, and the type of general election (presidential or midterm).
What are the two main types of primary elections that affect congressional races?
The two types of primaries mentioned that affect the process and outcomes of congressional elections are open and closed primaries.
General Election (Congressional)
A general election for congressional seats can be either a presidential election or a midterm election, both of which affect election processes and outcomes.
What is a caucus in the context of congressional elections?
A caucus is a type of electoral process, alongside primaries, that affects the selection of candidates for U.S. congressional elections.