1.6 Party Reform

Historical abuses in party control

Control of nominations by bosses and caucuses, corruption of political machines, and exclusion of young, poor, and minorities.

Progressive Era Reforms

Reforms aimed at improving the political process, including direct primaries, civil service expansion, and the introduction of the 17th Amendment for popular election of Senators.

Candidate-centered campaigns

Campaigns focused on individual candidates rather than on party affiliation.

De-alignment

The trend where voters reject political parties rather than realigning with a different party.

Political independents

Voters who do not identify with either major political party.

Split-ticket voting

The practice of voting for candidates from different parties on the same ballot.

Party resurgence

A revival of party influence and organization, characterized by better funding and strong party unity.

Allegations of party decline

Claims that political parties are dying due to lack of contrasting positions and meaningless membership.