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Understanding Direct Democracy in the USA: Propositions, Referendums, and Recalls

In 2008, California's 'Proposition' vote on same-sex marriage highlighted the importance of direct democracy. This lesson seeks to explore the various types of direct democracy in the U.S., including propositions, referendums, and recall elections. Students will learn the advantages and disadvantages of direct democracy and compare it to representative democracy. By examining case studies and reflecting on past ballot measures, students will engage in discussions about how they would vote on social issues and the overall effectiveness of direct democracy in American politics.

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Understanding Direct Democracy in the USA: Propositions, Referendums, and Recalls

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  1. starter activity In 2008 the State of California held a special vote called a ‘Proposition’ on same-sex marriage. What do you feel about this issue? How would you vote as a class?

  2. Does ‘direct democracy’ exist in the USA?  Aims Understand the difference between referendums, initiatives and recall elections and consider the pros and cons of the use of direct democracy in the US political context.

  3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of ‘direct democracy’? Read Bennett p.110 and make a list.

  4.  Your task • States provide many opportunities for ‘direct democracy’ through the use of propositions, referendums and recall elections. Read Bennett, p.108-111 and take notes on these different types of direct democracy

  5. Proposition • AKA ‘initiative’ • Citizens may suggest amendments to laws and even the constitution by putting them to a vote • Possible in 24 states • 2 types: direct & indirect (requiring approval by state legislature) • Require a threshold (usu. no less than 10% of voters) • 1990-2004, 48% passed

  6. Referendum • Available in all 50 states • Voters can veto bills passed by legislature • Constitutional reform or changes in taxation • Popular referendum ,e.g. Alaska & Colorado, allows voters to petition for a ballot on new legislation • Can lead to ‘buyer’s regret’

  7. Recall elections • Remove elected official before end of their term of office • Form of impeachment by citizens

  8. Famous example of a recall election was when Arnold Schwarzenegger (above) replaced Governor Gray Davis of California. Can you think of an appropriate caption for this picture?

  9.  Extension task • Produce a factoid for the class giving examples of recent direct democracy in the USA. Include examples of • Propositions • Referendums • Recalls

  10. Which is more democratic the election of UK prime ministers or US presidents?

  11.  Homework • Use the information in Bennett, pp. 97-108 and pp.111-113 as well as p. 97-, plus any other specific examples from your research to complete a table similar to the one below

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