Political Parties Purposes and Functions
Today in Class Questions about project ???? Outline Notes Worksheet
Definition of Political Party Group of people who share the same basic political ideology, who organize to win elections and seek to control the government and thus determine public policy (what government should do and not do)
Major Party Functions Recruit and Nominate Candidates Run Campaigns Motivate the electorate Educate the public Coordinate policy Link between people and Government Serve as watchdog
Nominate Candidates Parties nominate or choose or select candidates from their party to run for political office (primaries/convention) Recruit candidates for public office Act as a screening device for candidates Nomination function is now mainly in the hands of the people (voters) due to the primaries but still controlled somewhat by the parties
Run Campaigns Party organization coordinates and helps to run the campaigns for party candidates Party organization raises money for candidates (campaign committees) Party organization advises candidates on what to do and not to do
Motivate the Electorate Organize voter registration drives Encourage citizens to vote and assist in voting In some cases, actually transport voters to their polling place if they need assistance Propaganda campaigns to persuade voters to choose their candidate
Educate the Public Parties educate the public about the issues or problems that need to be addressed (start debate and discussions) Try to convince voters that their way is the best way to “run the government”
Serve as a Watchdog Parties closely monitor and watch what the other major political parties for corruption Parties report on illegal activity and keep the public informed of what the government is doing or not doing Minor function that is not that important due to the role of the Media
Link between people and Government Political parties serve as a link between the people and the government (contact government) Allows people to organize together with common goals, a shared vision (strength in numbers) Allows for political participation (joining a group) Parties provide information to voters about candidates, mobilize voters, and raise funds
Coordinate Policy Party members try to coordinate between the branches of government (legislative and executive) to accomplish goals and objectives (divided and unified government) Seek help and support from other party members (Get laws passed) Work Together
The Anthony Weiner Scandal
Republican House Rep Chris Lee Resigns After Attempted Hook-up on Craigslist
President Clinton Impeachment