Chapter 8- elections and campaigns Wednesday, October 5, 2016 7:43 AM ? Presidential versus congressional campaigns Introduction Two phases: getting nominated and getting elected Getting nominated Getting a name on the ballot An individual effort (versus organizational effort in Europe) Parties play a minor role (compared with Europe) Parties used to play a major role Major differences Presidential races are more competitive. House races have lately been one-sided for Democrats. Presidential winner rarely gets more than 55 percent of vote Most House incumbents are reelected (more than 90 percent) Fewer people vote in congressional elections Unless election coincides with presidential election Gives greater importance to partisan voters (party regulars)