Prepare: Prior to tackling this first discussion question, read Chapters 11 and 12 in A Novel Approach to Politics.
Reflect: The processes used to make laws, govern society, and maintain democracy are complex and multi-faceted. The processes involve many different political issues and actors, including interest groups and political parties. In this discussion, you will examine the politics surrounding a recall election. This will give great insights into how this democratic process works, enabling critical analysis of the various political actors involved, and how their behavior and power relationships impacts recalls.
research a recall election. Use this website from the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) as your starting point for your research:
https://www.ncsl.org/elections-and-campaigns/recall-of-state-officials#List_of_States_with_Process
- 1921 Governor Lynn J. Frazier recall in North Dakota
In your discussion post, answer the following questions:
- What interests groups, to include political parties, were involved in the success or failure of this recall election and why? What was the result of the recall election?
- Were there any unintended consequences of this recall election?
- Do you believe recall elections are good or bad for democracies and why?