Political Parties

Political Parties A political party is a group of voters organized to support certain public policies. Members form based on SHARED views

Issues The political party supports issues that match their shared views

Role in Elections A political party offers candidates for public office. It sets out positions that they support, and let voters to easily identify a candidate's positions.

Symbols Parties often use colors and symbols to easily identify themselves

Ideology - Conservative Focus on traditional values and is slow to change. Government is only to ensure general welfare.

Ideology -Liberal Focus on the future and change for the better. Feel government should take an active role to help and aid people.

Ideology - Moderate In the middle: not extreme, partisan, or radical.

The Origin of Political Parties

Factions groups that pursue its own interests Sometimes at the expense of the common good

Ratification Debate Federalists V Anti-Federalist debate over approval of the constitution. Origin of political parties

Federalists Strong Federal Government needed – To actively fix National Problems – to protect rights.

Anti-Federalists  Republicans Wanted a Bill of Rights – Limited Federal Power Wanted to maintain more State power

Washington’s Warning: Washington was against factions and wanted groups to look out for the good of ALL (see reading)

Early Issues Neutrality in war – Federalists want to help GB for trade – Republicans wanted to help France (after their help in revolution Alien and Sedition Acts – Adams (Federalist, using gov power) – Republicans (led by Jefferson felt it was an abuse of National Gov’t)

“Revolution of 1800” Jefferson defeats Adams in Election – First peaceable transfer of power from one faction to another

Today: Democrats (evolved out of the Anti- Federalist/Republicans) Federalists died out Today's Republicans arrive about 50 years later (Lincoln)

Political Parties Today:

Two Party System The government is dominated by only TWO major political parties (usually divided left/right wing) – Majority – has the most representation in the legislature – Minority – has the least representation

Republicans (aka the GOP) Color: Red Symbol: Elephant Views: Conservative Key Ideas today: – States Rights – Less Restrictions on Business – Traditional views

Democrat Color: Blue Symbol: Donkey Views: Liberal Key Ideas today: – Government aide – More Restrictions on Business – Modern views

Independents Voter who has not joined either party – Can often decide who wins an election

Role of 3 rd parties (Smaller parties) Struggle to win elections in 2 party system – Push viewpoints – Play “spoiler” in elections

Examples of 3 rd Parties Constitution Party Green Party Libertarian Party

Grassroots Campaign Raising small funds Door to door campaigning Local Rallies and speeches Elect local officials and help support national.

National Role Major speeches/events/fundraisers TV/Radio advertisements Primaries (see next slide)

Primary Election choosing within the party who will run for office