What’s Next for Political Parties in America?
What’s It About? Any consideration of the two-party system and its durability over the course of U.S. history surely touches on all the following and more: the functions of political parties, trends in party identification among American voters today, and third parties. The Issue? How will each party define itself for the next generation?
https://mediaplayer.pearsoncmg.com/assets/_video.true/mypoliscilab-2017-AmGov-Explaining_Political_Parties
1. What are some of the possible reasons why over 40 percent of Americans don’t identify themselves as either Republicans or Democrats?
2. Can you provide examples of the four functions of political parties itemized in the video—mobilize voters, recruit candidates, facilitate governance, and monitor opposing party—at work?
3. What are the arguments for and against third-party solutions to issues in American politics?
4. Are you registered to vote? If not, why not?
Guide On Rating System
Vote
1. Some possible reasons why over 40 percent of Americans don't identify themselves as either Republicans or Democrats include:
- Dissatisfaction with the two major parties: Some individuals may feel that neither party aligns with their beliefs or values, leading them to identify as independent or with a third party.
- Anti-establishment sentiment: There may be a general frustration with the political establishment and a desire for change, which can lead to a rejection of the two major parties.
- Lack of interest or understanding: Some people may not closely follow politics or have a strong understanding of political ideologies, leading them to not identify with any specific party.
2. Examples of the four functions of political parties:
- Mobilize voters: Parties play a crucial role in mobilizing their supporters to vote in elections. They do this by conducting voter outreach, organizing rallies and events, and running voter registration drives.
- Recruit candidates: Parties actively recruit candidates to run for elective offices at various levels of government. They provide resources, support, and endorsements to these candidates, helping them navigate the political landscape.
- Facilitate governance: Political parties in power use their influence to pass their policy agenda and implement their platform. They do this by coordinating legislative efforts, rallying support from party members, and negotiating with other political actors.
- Monitor opposing party: Parties serve as a checks-and-balances system by monitoring and criticizing the policies and actions of the opposing party. They provide opposition research, question and challenge decisions, and highlight discrepancies or failures.
3. Arguments for third-party solutions to issues in American politics:
- More options and diversity of ideas: Third parties can offer alternative perspectives and policy proposals, expanding the range of choices available to voters. This can address issues of ideological polarization and provide a more nuanced political landscape.
- Breaking the two-party dominance: Some argue that the two major parties have become too intertwined with corporate interests and that the presence of third parties can disrupt this duopoly, allowing for greater competition and accountability.
- Giving voice to marginalized groups: Third parties often represent specific interests or constituencies that may not be adequately represented by the major parties. They can give a voice to marginalized groups or minority viewpoints.
Arguments against third-party solutions:
- Duverger's law: The electoral system in the U.S., which is based on a plurality system, tends to encourage a two-party system. This is known as Duverger's law, which suggests that smaller parties have a disadvantage in winning elections and tend to be marginalized.
- Spoiler effect: Some argue that third parties can split the vote and inadvertently help the party they ideologically oppose. This can lead to a perception that voting for third parties is wasteful or ineffective.
- Lack of resources and support: Third parties often struggle to gain widespread support, funding, or media attention compared to the major parties. This can limit their ability to compete effectively in elections and influence policy.
4. This question cannot be answered as it requires personal information.