Chapter 14 - Sections 1 and 2

The powers and limitations of political parties

Political Parties

Political parties are organized groups that aim to gain political power by winning elections, influencing government policies, and representing specific ideologies or interests.

What are the duties of a political party?

• Political parties unite individuals with similar social, economic, and ideological goals.

• They identify and support candidates for federal, state, and local offices.

• Parties educate and mobilize voters to increase participation.

• They raise funds and create media strategies to promote candidates.

• If candidates win, parties work to maintain their positions in office.

• Parties develop policy platforms for their candidates to adhere to.

Ticket Splitting

The practice of voting for candidates from different political parties on the same ballot, often reflecting a voter’s specific preferences rather than strict party loyalty.

Micro-Targeting

A marketing strategy used by political parties to identify and reach specific voter segments based on detailed data analysis, tailoring messages to resonate with individual preferences.

How does micro-targeting work?

It uses detailed voter data and survey results to tailor messages, aiming to understand behaviors and preferences, thereby influencing voter turnout.

Geofencing

A location-based strategy using GPS or RFID to create virtual boundaries, enabling political campaigns to send targeted messages to potential voters within specific areas.

Party Identification

The emotional or psychological attachment a voter has to a particular political party, influencing their voting behavior and political preferences.

Straight-Ticket Voting

The practice of voting for all candidates of one political party on a ballot, rather than selecting candidates from multiple parties.

Party Platform

A political party's formal set of principles and goals that outline its stance on various issues, guiding its policies and campaign strategies.

Candidate Recruitment

The process through which political parties identify and select the best candidates for public office, prioritizing individuals who will draw voters to them.

Party Coalition

An group of political voters that come together to support the party’s policies and vote for their political candidates.

Government Realignment

A major shift in a state’s allegiance to a political party, usually driven by changes in issues that unite or divide voters.

Critical Elections

Major national elections that shift the balance between the Democratic and Republican parties.

Party Eras

Periods where one political party wins most of the national elections.

Divided Government

When one party controls the White House, but the other holds one or both Houses of Congress