Political Parties Basics
What is a political party?
An organized group that seeks to influence government by electing its members
What were the first two political parties in the United States?
Federalists and Democratic-Republicans
What is a third party?
A political party other than the two major parties
What is one job political parties do besides running candidates?
Inform voters / organize government / act as a watchdog
What is the minimum voting age in the United States?
18
What are the two major political parties in the United States?
Democratic Party and Republican Party
Which Founding Father is most associated with the Federalists?
Alexander Hamilton
Name one type of third party.
Single-issue, ideological, or splinter
What is a primary election?
An election where party members choose their candidate
List two basic requirements to vote in the U.S.
U.S. citizen, registered, state residency, age 18
What is one reason political parties are important in a democracy?
They organize voters / provide choices / connect people to government
What was one major disagreement between early political parties?
Strong vs. weak national government (or economy interpretation)
Why do third parties struggle to win elections?
Lack of money, support, and winner-take-all elections
What is a caucus?
A meeting where party members discuss and vote for candidates
Who was originally allowed to vote in the United States?
White male property owners
At what levels of government do political parties exist?
National, state, and local
Why did many early Americans distrust political parties?
They believed parties would divide the nation.
How can third parties still influence U.S. politics?
They introduce new ideas or issues
How do political parties act as watchdogs?
They criticize the party in power
Which amendment gave women the right to vote?
19th Amendment
What is a political machine?
a strong party organization that can control political appointments and deliver votes
Why have political parties changed over time?
Issues, beliefs, and society have changed
Why might major parties adopt ideas from third parties?
To attract voters and stay competitive
Why is party organization important during elections?
It helps raise money, organize campaigns, and mobilize voters.
Which amendment banned poll taxes?
24th Amendment