1. Our Two-Party System
Ch. 22, Sec. 2 Pp

2. A Brief History
First two: Federalists (strong national government) and Democratic-Republicans (powerful states)
1854 – Democrats and Republicans

3. Role of Third Parties Sometimes forms to support cause or idea
Sometimes forms to back a candidate
Can take votes from one of the major parties

4. Characteristics of Today’s Parties
Democrats favor social programs, e.g., aid to the poor
Republicans want to reduce power of federal government
Not very different, because they need broad support to be elected
Local level most important
Conventions every four years

5. Changes in Party Strength
Maintain strength through:
System of patronage
Central role in election campaigns
Voter loyalty
Many voters independent today

6. Questions
What was the first political party established in the United States?
The Democrats
The Federalists
The Republicans
The Whigs

7. Questions
Voting precincts are generally made up of which of the following?
Fewer than 1,000 voters
More than 1,000 voters
Fewer than 100 voters
More than 10,000 voters

8. Questions How do you become a member of a political party?
Attend regular meetings
Pay yearly dues
Think of yourself as a member
Vote in a general election

9. Questions Why do fewer people today vote a straight ticket?
Voters base their decisions on particular candidates or issues
Voters tend to vote for candidates of one party
Voters vote for independent candidates only
Voters raise campaign funds for candidates