1. POLITICAL PARTIES

2. What is a Political Party?
A group of individuals outside of government who organize
to win elections, to operate the government, and determine
public policy.

3. The Three Dimensions of Political Parties
The Party in the Electorate: eligible voters who describe
themselves as members of a political party.
2. The Party Organization: national, state, local.
3. The Party in the Government: all candidates who have won
elections.

4. What Political Parties Do:
Select Candidates
Inform and inspire the Public
Coordinate Policy Making
Balance Interests within the Party
Serve as the ‘loyal opposition’
Run Campaigns
Raise Money

5. The Two Party System
Historically, two major political parties have dominated national politics, due to single-member districts, winner-take all elections and consensus on major issues.
Currently, the Republican Party and the Democratic Party dominate politics.
Third Parties: political parties that develop when people believe certain needs and values are not being addressed properly by the major parties.

6. The Two Party System Minor parties in American politics
Constitution Party
America First Party
Reform Party
Green Party
Socialist Party
Communist Party