Political Parties: Functions, Symbols, and Electoral Processes

What is a political party?

An organization that seeks political power by electing people to office so that its positions and philosophy become public policy.

Why are political parties essential to democracy?

They perform vital functions, mirror American society, and are deeply rooted in the democratic process.

What are some functions of political parties?

They organize competition, unify the electorate, inspire and inform, translate preferences into policy, provide loyal opposition, organize government, help govern, and act as watchdogs.

What is the purpose of party conventions?

To draw more voters and reduce the influence of party elites in candidate selection.

What is a direct primary?

A system where voters can directly vote for their party's nominee.

What is an open primary?

A primary that permits any registered voter to participate in the selection of a party's nominee.

What is a closed primary?

A primary where only registered party members can vote to select their party's nominee.

How did the Democratic Party adopt the donkey as its symbol?

The donkey was first associated with Andrew Jackson's 1828 campaign after opponents called him a '*******', which he embraced.

Who popularized the elephant as a symbol for the Republican Party?

Cartoonist Thomas Nast, who depicted the elephant in an 1874 cartoon representing the Republican vote.

What distinguishes the European model of political parties from the American system?

The European model emphasizes party control over nominations and campaigns, while the American system is more candidate-centered and based on personal appeal.

What is the role of the loyal opposition?

The party out of power monitors and comments on the actions of the party in power, providing accountability.

What is the honeymoon phase in politics?

A period of politeness and cooperation following an election, after which the opposition begins to criticize the party in power.

What is a caucus?

A meeting of supporters or members of a specific political party to choose candidates for higher office.

What criticisms were made about caucuses in the 1820s?

Critics charged that caucuses involved 'secret deals' among party members.

When did political parties begin to exist in the United States?

In the first decade of the new government, around 1787.

What are some characteristics of political parties?

They can be full of internal conflict, disorganized at times, and rigid but capable of being taken over by reformers.

How do political parties inspire and inform voters?

By communicating their platforms and policies to the electorate.

What does it mean for political parties to act as watchdogs?

They monitor the government and hold it accountable for its actions.

What is the significance of political parties in the electoral process?

They help organize elections and mobilize voters to participate in the democratic process.