Political Parties and Electoral Systems

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions from the lecture on political parties and electoral systems.

What is the significance of political parties in elections?

Political parties play a crucial role in elections by organizing candidates, articulating policy platforms, and facilitating voter engagement.

How did the electoral system affect political party representation in New Zealand?

The change from a majoritarian to a proportional electoral system allowed for a multi-party system in New Zealand, leading to increased representation for smaller parties.

What is meant by 'voter behavior'?

Voter behavior refers to the patterns and factors influencing how individuals decide to vote in elections.

What are some examples of political parties mentioned in the lecture?

Examples include the National Party, Labour Party, Green Party, and New Conservative Party.

What is the concept of 'coattailing' in electoral politics?

Coattailing refers to candidates benefiting from the popularity of a political figure or party, potentially increasing their own chances of election.

What does the term 'single-issue party' refer to?

A single-issue party focuses primarily on one specific area of policy or social concern, such as environmental issues or cannabis legalization.

What are electoral 'tickets' mentioned in local elections?

Tickets are informal coalitions of candidates who share a platform or branding to enhance their chances of being elected.

What is the role of lobby groups in relation to political parties?

Lobby groups aim to influence policy decisions and advocate for specific interests, often working with political parties to align on common goals.

Why is a party's ideology important to voters?

A party's ideology helps voters understand what policies to expect and helps them make informed decisions based on their own values and interests.

What challenges do political candidates face when running for office?

Candidates face challenges such as gaining name recognition, fundraising, gathering support from party members, and navigating electoral regulations.