Political Parties Gov

Chapter 12: Political Parties

Overview

  • Republican Party Transformation (Post-2012):

    • "Growth and Opportunity Project" aimed to broaden appeal to diverse voters following Obama’s 2012 victory.

    • Trump’s 2016 campaign focused mainly on white voters, ignoring diversity recommendations.

  • Bernie Sanders' Campaigns:

    • Gained progressive support in 2016 and 2020, emphasizing party unity by supporting Biden in 2020.

  • Voter Loyalty:

    • Despite internal divisions, most voters identify with Republicans or Democrats.

  • Role of Political Parties:

    • Essential in American democracy for managing conflicts, recruiting leaders, and connecting citizens with government.

Historical Development of Party Systems

First Party System (1790-1824)

  • Conflict between Democratic-Republicans and Federalists.

  • Formation of parties to coalesce opposing views for more votes.

Second Party System (1824-1860)

  • Whigs vs. Democrats.

  • Introduction of the spoils system.

  • Emergence of national party conventions, increasing voter turnout.

Third Party System (1860-1894)

  • Shift from antislavery Republicans to Democrat dominance in the South post-Civil War.

  • Progressive reforms aimed at dismantling party machines.

Fourth Party System: Republican Ascendancy to Modern Organizations

  • Democrats adopted policies from the People's Party.

  • Republican decline post-Great Depression; significant shifts in party demographics and alliances.

Modern Party Organizations

  • National committees, elected officials work together for power.

  • Increased role of candidates over traditional party structures in campaigns.

  • Funding by wealthy donors; flexible campaign budgets.

Key Definitions and Concepts

  • Political Parties:

    • Defined by Edmund Burke as a group promoting national interest via shared principles.

    • Anthony Downs describes a party as a team aiming to control government via elections.

  • Political Expediency:

    • Parties prioritize gaining public office over strict adherence to ideals.

Key Terms

  • Australian Ballot: Private voting method allowing votes for candidates from all parties.

  • Caucus: Meeting to select delegates for conventions.

  • National Party Convention: Forum for broader participation in presidential nominations.

  • New Deal Coalition: Diverse Democrat coalition formed under Roosevelt.

  • Party Machines: Patron-client systems exchanging favors for votes.

  • Superdelegates: Prominent elected officials at conventions, influencing nominations.