1. Similarities and Differences between political parties
SOL CE 5b
Similarities and Differences between political parties

2. A two-party system characterizes the American political process.

3. Similarities between parties
Organize to win elections

4. Similarities between parties
Influence public policies

5. Similarities between parties
Reflect both liberal and conservative views
Liberals – Tend to favor more federal government involvement in solving social problems.
Conservatives – Favor less government intervention in the lives of citizens.

6. Similarities between parties
Define themselves in a way that wins majority support by appealing to the political center
The political center is called the moderate position. Candidates often try to characterize themselves as moderate and their opponents as extremely liberal or conservative.

7. Differences between parties
Stated in party platforms and reflected in campaigning

8. Third Parties
Although third parties rarely win elections, they can play an important role in public politics.
Many times issues first brought up by third parties become so popular that the two major parties adopt these issues. Like women’s suffrage, temperance, and the environment.

9. Third parties
Introduce new ideas and/or press for a particular issue

10. Third parties
Often revolve around a political personality (e.g., Theodore Roosevelt)

11. Review Quiz

12. The American political process is characterized by what kind of system?
Two - party

13. What are the similarities between the political parties?
Organize to win elections
Influence public policies
Reflect both liberal and conservative views
Define themselves in a way that wins majority support by appealing to the political center

14. In what two areas are the differences between parties found?
Party platform
Campaigning

15. List two facts about third parties.
Introduce new ideas and/or press for a particular issue
Often revolve around a political personality (e.g., Theodore Roosevelt)