American Government Chapter 5 Section 1
Political Parties Groups Of Like Minded Individuals Groups Trying To Influence Public Policy Major Parties Are Election Oriented
Coalitions Unions Of Diversely Minded People Groups Trying To Influence Public Policy Coalitions Are Issue Oriented
Party Functions Nominating Informer-Stimulator “Seal Of Approval” Governmental Watchdog
Nominating Function Serves To Supply Candidates For Public Office Almost Exclusively A Party Function Clearly Sets Parties Apart From Other Political Groups
Informer-Stimulator Function Serves To Inform The Public Regarding Various Issues Serves To Stimulate Public Discussion On Important Party Functions Acts As An Attractant For New Members
“Seal Of Approval” Function Ensures Quality Of Candidates Running For Office Failure To Meet Social Standards Can Affect Party And Candidate
Governmental Function Congress Organized Along Party Lines Majority Party Dictates Path For Policy Parties Provide Channels For Most Efficient Governing
Watchdog Function Minority Party Keeps Record Of Majority Party’s Mistakes Provides Campaigning Issues For Next Election