UK A-Levels Politics Practice Exam

What does the recall procedure allow voters to do?

1. Change the voting system in their state

2. Remove an elected official from office

3. Elect new officials during a special election

4. Propose new legislation through a referendum

The correct answer is: Remove an elected official from office

The recall procedure is a political process that empowers voters to remove an elected official from office before their term has officially ended. This mechanism serves as a form of direct democracy, allowing citizens to hold elected officials accountable for their actions while in office. If a significant number of voters are dissatisfied with an official's performance, they can initiate a recall election, which typically requires the collection of a predetermined number of signatures from registered voters on a petition. If successful, this leads to a special election where voters can decide whether to remove the official or allow them to continue serving their term. Other options refer to processes that do not align with the specific function of the recall procedure. Changing the voting system in a state involves legislative action or a referendum, rather than a direct recall of an elected official. Electing new officials during a special election may occur as a result of a recall, but it does not encapsulate the essence of the recall process itself. Proposing new legislation through a referendum is entirely different, as it deals with introducing new laws rather than removing individuals from office. Thus, the essence of the recall procedure is accurately captured by the option related to removing an elected official from office.