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Referendum

Definition

A referendum is a direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal. This may result in the adoption of new legislation.

Analogy

Imagine if your entire school got to vote on whether pizza should be served every day for lunch. That's what happens in a referendum - everyone gets their say on specific issues!

Related terms

Ballot Measure: Legislation that appears on the ballot for voters to approve or reject.

Popular Vote: The total number or percentage of votes cast for a candidate by voters in the 50 states and District of Columbia.

Legislation: Laws considered collectively; the process through which statutes are enacted by a legislative body such as Congress.

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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.