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Lesson PreviewLesson 9 of 13 in this unit

5.9 Congressional Elections

Part of Political Participation in AP® US Government & Politics. Read the opening section, then create a free account for the full interactive lesson, practice, and progress tracking.

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Congressional elections determine representation in the House of Representatives and the Senate and occur regularly to ensure accountability. House members serve two-year terms, which leads to frequent elections and a strong connection to constituents. Senators serve six-year terms, with staggered elections that provide continuity while still allowing voters to influence legislative direction. These differences shape campaign strategies and voter engagement.

In this unit

13 lessons

  1. 5.1Voting Rights and Models of Voting BehaviorPreview lesson
  2. 5.2Voter TurnoutPreview lesson
  3. 5.3Political PartiesPreview lesson
  4. 5.4How and Why Political Parties Change and AdaptPreview lesson
  5. 5.5Third-Party PoliticsPreview lesson
  6. 5.6Interest Groups Influencing PolicymakingPreview lesson
  7. 5.7Groups Influencing Policy OutcomesPreview lesson
  8. 5.8Electing a PresidentPreview lesson
  9. 5.9Congressional ElectionsThis lesson
  10. 5.10Modern CampaignsPreview lesson
  11. 5.11Campaign FinancePreview lesson
  12. 5.12The MediaPreview lesson
  13. 5.13Changing MediaPreview lesson

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