Question

question 9 of 10

what was the peoples partys view on the election of senators?

a. they thought senators should be elected by state legislatures.
b. they thought senators should be directly elected by popular vote.
c. they thought senators should be elected by presidential electors.
d. they thought senators should be elected by the house of representatives.

Explanation:

Identify the core platform of the People's Party

The People's Party (also known as the Populists) was a late 19th-century political party that advocated for reforms to increase the political power of ordinary citizens and curb the influence of wealthy elites and corporations.

Analyze the Populist stance on electing senators

Under the original U.S. Constitution, senators were chosen by state legislatures. The Populists strongly advocated for the direct election of U.S. senators by popular vote to make the Senate more democratic and responsive to the public, a reform later achieved with the 17th Amendment.

Evaluate the given options

• Option A represents the status quo at the time, which the Populists opposed.
• Option B correctly identifies their goal of direct election by popular vote.
• Options C and D are incorrect mechanisms not supported by the party.

Answer:

• (A) They thought senators should be elected by state legislatures.
• (B) They thought senators should be directly elected by popular vote. (Correct answer)
• (C) They thought senators should be elected by presidential electors.
• (D) They thought senators should be elected by the House of Representatives.