Formal accusation against a president or other public official, the first step in removal from office.

365-day period, beginning October 1st and ending September 30th, which defines the beginning and end of the federal government's annual budgetary cycle.

An economic benefit given by the government to an individual, business or group that engages in behavior deemed beneficial by policy makers. Payments can take the form of direct cash payments, tax credits or tax deductions.

The relationship between government and citizens. Acknowledgement and assumption of responsibility for decisions, actions, and policies, in light of agreed expectations, such as an agreement between an elected official and

his/her constituents.

A person who believes in or participates in direct action to make changes in government or social conditions by campaigning in public or working for an organization. An activist is described as someone who pursues vigorous actions to pursue a political or social end.

This is a type of citizen contact in which campaign organizers or volunteers go from one house or apartment to another, talking directly to citizens. This can be one of the most persuasive methods of gaining credibility and support, though it is time and labor intensive.

A situation in which someone in a position of trust or authority, has competing professional or personal interests, which can make it difficult to fulfill  duties impartially. It can exist even if no unethical or improper act results from it and can create an appearance of impropriety that can undermine confidence in the person/position/office.

Explicit or implicit revocation of, or failure to grant, the right to vote to a person or a group of people.

Grassroots activism is activity conducted by a group of like-minded people who have come together for a cause they believe in. Activities include holding public events, letter writing campaigns, information dissemination, engaging the media, etc.

The geographical area over which a court or government body has the power and right to exercise authority

When a candidate or campaign continues to deliver the same message or theme at every opportunity. Often the opponent will try to pull the campaign off their message.

A company with a labor agreement under which union membership can be a condition of employment.

A company with a labor agreement under which union membership cannot be required as a condition of employment.

Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but which are suggested or implied by the "general welfare," "necessary & proper," and commerce clauses in the Constitution.

Powers that may be exercised by both the federal government and the state governments – for example, levying taxes, borrowing money, and spending for the general welfare.

Interest groups organized under section 527 of the Internal Revenue Code may advertise for or against candidates. If their source of funding is corporations or unions, they have some restrictions on broadcast advertising. 527 organizations were important in recent elections.