FED GOV 2

What is a political party?

A group of political activists organized to win elections, operate government, and influence public policy.

How do political parties differ from interest groups?

Political parties aim to operate government and run candidates; interest groups do not.

Name five main functions of political parties.

A: 1) Recruit candidates

2) Organize elections

3) Present policy alternatives

4) Operate the government

5) Act as opposition

When did the first partisan political divisions in the U.S. begin?

In the 1790s, with the Federalists and Anti-Federalists.

What did George Washington warn about in his farewell address?

The “baneful effects of the spirit of party” — he believed parties could harm unity.

What political party formed to oppose Andrew Jackson?

The Whig Party, made up of factions from the Democratic-Republicans.

What was the significance of the 1860 election?

Abraham Lincoln (Republican) won with 39.9% of the vote, starting Republican dominance.

What is the GOP?

Grand Old Party — nickname for the Republican Party.

What communication tool did FDR use to connect with Americans?

: Fireside chats on the radio.

What happens at a national party convention?

Parties nominate presidential candidates and write/revise their platforms.

Where do platform ideas begin in the party system?

With voters at precinct conventions, then to county and state levels.

Do candidates always follow the party platform?

: Not always; many avoid controversial issues in the platform, but research shows about ¾ of promises become law.

What is the most powerful level in party structure?

: State parties hold the most real power and influence.

What is ticket splitting?

Voting for candidates from different parties on the same ballot.

Which demographics generally lean Democratic

Women, Blacks, Hispanics, Asians, post-grad educated, Millennials, non-religious, Jews.

Which demographics generally lean Republican?

White men without college degrees, white southerners, Mormons, white evangelicals.

What are two key indicators of political participation?

: Income and education.

Why has the U.S. maintained a two-party system?

Historical tradition, political socialization, shared values, winner-take-all elections, and election laws.

What is the winner-take-all system?

A system where the candidate with the most votes wins everything, even without a majority.

How do election laws favor major parties?

Major parties need fewer signatures to appear on ballots and get easier access to campaign funds.

What role do third parties play in the U.S.?

They introduce new ideas, act as safety valves for dissent, and can affect election outcomes.

: What was the result of the 1992 election involving Ross Perot?

He got 18% of the vote, likely taking votes from Bush and helping Clinton win.

What are inside vs. outside lobbying?

: What was the significance of Citizens United v. FEC?

Allowed unlimited independent political spending by corporations and unions.

What is a Super PAC?

What is the Federal Election Campaign Act?

A 1971 law regulating campaign finance and disclosures.

What did Buckley v. Valeo decide?

Candidates can spend unlimited personal funds on their own campaigns.