POLITICALParty

What comes to mind when you see: DEMOCRAT Write down the first three words that come to mind.

What comes to mind when you see: REPUBLICAN Write down the first three words that come to mind.

Political parties are never mentioned in the Constitution. Two Party System The United States has what is known as a two-party system. What does that mean? This is a form of party system where two major political parties, more or less equal in strength and influence, dominate in elections at all levels. Did you know: Political parties are never mentioned in the Constitution.

Throughout History Throughout the history of the United States, there have been two main political parties. Remember the Federalists and Anti-Federalists?? Today we have the Republican Party and the Democratic Party Freedom to create new parties exists, but the majority of voters believe their votes will only count when used to select a candidate from one of the two major parties.

Does that mean there are only two political parties? Two Party System Does that mean there are only two political parties? No, there are many political parties in the United States “Big 3” Third parties: Constitution Party Green Party Libertarian Party http://election.dos.state.fl.us/nvra/registration.asp Click each logo to view the respective party’s platform on their website.

Role of Political Parties Political parties are composed of individuals who share similar ideas about government. Those within a party share similar views on: The role of government Foreign policy Taxes Military and defense The economy Healthcare And many other topics… Note: sometimes people may share views of both parties on different issues

Party Animals? Democrats use a donkey as the symbol for their party. The donkey was first used as a symbol of the Democratic Party by Andrew Jackson. He had often been called a donkey, as they are known for being strong willed. Republicans use an elephant as the symbol for their party. The elephant first came into use in the 1800’s when it was used in a political cartoon to represent the Republican Vote. To see the cartoon, click HERE.

Political Parties Today What function do political parties serve today? Provide a forum to discuss public policies and issues with like-minded individuals and try to influence government Establish a networking system where people can nominate candidates for office, raise money for candidates, and set up campaigns Serve as an entry point for people to become involved in government Give people a choice of candidates Serve as a connection between state and national government

How does Your County Register VOTERS? When people register to vote, they are asked to include their political party affiliation. Which party has more members in your county? What do you think? Click HERE to find out!

Registering to Vote IN FLORIDA: Be a Citizen of the United States of America (a lawful permanent resident is not a U.S. citizen); Be a Florida resident; Be 18 years old (you may pre-register to vote if you are 16 years old, but you cannot vote until you are 18 years old). Not now be adjudicated mentally incapacitated with respect to voting in Florida or any other state without having the right to vote restored; Not have been convicted of a felony without your civil rights having been restored; and Provide your current and valid Florida driver’s license number or Florida identification card number

Where do you stand? Using issues identified in the link below, see which party you align with as you explore the major 2012 campaign discussions. USATODAY: Candidate Match Game