Section: AP Government

29) The economy serves as a driving force for many in determining the outcome of certain elections.  In good economic times, the party holding the White House normally does well; while in poor times, the opposition party normally does better.  What is this called?

1. Economic Vote
2. Wall Street Vote
3. What Have You Done for Me Lately Vote
4. Pocketbook Vote
5. Consumer Vote

Pocketbook voting is a political concept that sees voters casting their election ballots based on how they perceive their personal economic circumstances. Essentially, pocketbook voting is what researchers term a “selfish” factor. Rather than vote for the common good, people vote their “pocketbook” on the belief that the person for whom they are voting will help their personal economic situation.