Question

which of the following is an example of initiative?
a special election to elect a new senator
ousting a governor from office by ballot
a muckraker starting their own investigation

Explanation:

An initiative in political terms (falling under Social Science - Politics) is a process where citizens can propose legislation or constitutional amendments. However, the option "a muckraker starting their own investigation" shows taking the initiative (proactive action) to uncover information. The other options: a special election is a regular electoral process, ousting a governor is a recall (different from initiative). So the muckraker's self - initiated investigation is an example of initiative (personal initiative here, but in the context of the options, this is the one showing proactive action).

Answer:

a muckraker starting their own investigation