The orthodoxy in political science holds that realignments are signaled by one or more

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best choice is B, critical elections, as this is the accepted signal of a realignment in political science. Critical elections are those that result in a significant shift in voter alignment, such as the election of 1932 that ushered in the New Deal coalition or the election of 1980 that signaled the beginning of an era of conservative dominance. Close elections (A) and periodic elections (E) do not necessarily indicate a realignment, as they may simply reflect a closely divided electorate or routine turnover in office. Rebounding elections (C) and major shift elections (D) are not commonly recognized categories in political science.

The Orthodoxy in Political Science Holds That Realignments Are Signaled