Political Parties and the Primary Process

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding the structure and dynamics of political parties and the election process, including the caucus system, types of primaries, and the influence of minor parties.

Caucus System

A system allowing party members to have a voice in candidate selection through multiple layers of meetings.

Closed Primary

A type of primary election where only registered party members can vote to select their party's candidates.

Open Primary

A primary election where voters can choose which party's primary to participate in without needing to be a registered member of that party.

Front Loading

The practice of scheduling multiple state primaries early in the election cycle to reduce competition.

Candidate Centered Campaign

A campaign strategy that focuses on the individual candidate rather than on party affiliation or broader political issues.

Minor Parties

Political parties that have less influence and typically do not win major elections, but can impact political discourse.

Financial Primary

An unofficial primary process where candidates raise money before official primaries, determining their viability.

Dixiecrats

A splinter party that broke from the Democratic Party over civil rights issues in the 1948 election.

Prohibition Party

An issue advocacy party that focused on the prohibition of alcohol, achieving significant policy influence despite not winning elections.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

An organization that raises and spends money to elect or defeat candidates, distinct from interest groups.