Exam)
kud2l.kutztown.edu
Question 38 (1 ?point)
Listen
Modern-day national party nominating conventions are generally
a) ?longer and considerably more exciting
b) ?essentially the same as in the founders’ day
c) ?more unpredictable than in previous years
d) ?a rubber stamp for the victor of the primaries
?
Page 38 ?of 42
? 37 ?of 42 ?questions saved
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer to Question 38 is:
d) a rubber stamp for the victor of the primaries
Explanation:
Modern-day national party nominating conventions have undergone significant changes since their inception. In the early days of the United States, conventions were pivotal in choosing party nominees. The process was much more chaotic and unpredictable, with political bosses and delegates wielding substantial influence in selecting the candidate. The role of conventions in this regard was more central, as they functioned as an open forum for party leaders to choose their nominee, sometimes in multiple ballots.
However, in the modern era, the role of conventions has drastically shifted. Starting in the mid-20th century, with reforms in the Democratic Party after the 1968 convention, the process of selecting a nominee has been democratized through primary elections and caucuses. These reforms made it so that delegates are now largely bound by the results of these contests. As a result, by the time the national convention occurs, the party’s nominee is essentially already determined, based on the outcomes of primary elections and caucuses held in the states. This makes the convention itself more of a formality and a platform to showcase the chosen nominee, rather than a contentious event where delegates engage in significant negotiation or decision-making.
The conventions are now often seen as a “rubber stamp” for the victor of the primaries. The nominee’s selection is largely a done deal, and the convention serves primarily as a celebratory event that highlights party unity and begins preparations for the general election. The spectacle at conventions, including speeches, media coverage, and rallies, is more about showcasing the party’s platform, energizing supporters, and creating momentum for the final push in the election campaign.
In conclusion, modern conventions are not the unpredictable or fiercely contested events they once were. Instead, they are largely ceremonial, confirming the outcome of the primary process. This is why answer d) is the correct choice.