Presents a lesson for teaching about the development of political party platforms dealing with American Indian issues. Explains that, although Indians are part of the electorate and sometimes hold political office, Indian issues are included in political platforms rarely if ever. Includes a list of contemporary issues to be used for discussion.…

Presents a secondary school lesson on cumulative voting in political elections. Encourages students to recognize the controversial nature of linking cultural diversity and voting rights. Includes learning objectives, step-by-step instructional procedures, and a student handout. (CFR)

Describes how cumulative voting works in corporations, where stockholders voting for boards of directors can split their votes among the number of shares they own. Maintains that this approach is being proposed in political elections as a means to provide minority representation. Presents an example of the procedure. (CFR)

Summarizes three case studies concerning the first amendment that address: (1) whether a state-owned television station can exclude a candidate from a televised debate; (2) whether decency conditions placed on grant projects by the National Endowment of the Arts censors freedom of expression; and (3) the constitutionality of the Line Item Veto…

Criticizes the presidential primary process as possibly leading to the destruction of the two-party system. Claims that the current process limits the competition to the rich and famous, enhances the worst aspects of campaigning, and evaluates candidates purely on their political skills. Briefly discusses some reform proposals. (MJP)

Reiterates the importance of voting and education to the democratic process. Praises President Clinton's efforts to increase voter participation and access including his support of the motor voter law. Briefly summarizes Clinton's vision for the future of the country. (MJP)

Maintains that current campaign finance laws and regulations unfairly advantage incumbents and discourage challengers. This has resulted in the predominance of interest groups, media campaigns, and an emphasis on fund raising over political leadership. Argues for campaign finance laws written to serve the public interest. (MJP)

Provides a quick look at some World Wide Web sites that contain current election year information. Recommends Project Vote Smart, a site with links to online news organizations, the home pages of all presidential candidates, and other political sites. Briefly notes several interactive CD-ROM resources. (MJP)

Examines the effects of new information and communication technologies on the structure and practices of U.S. politics. Maintains that the success or failure of digital-era democracy will depend ultimately on citizen participation. Includes a brief look at current innovative U.S. voter registration programs. (MJP)

Stresses the Robert Dole/Jack Kemp campaign's recognition of the importance of the youth vote. Notes the efforts of the Republican National Party to involve youth in politics. Details a 10-point program, the "Education Consumers Warranty," that summarizes conservatives' approach to educational reform. (MJP)