1. WHAT THEY DO Political Parties

2. What is a party? Political party: group of persons who seek to control government through the winning of elections and the holding of public office. Major parties: Democrat and Republican, in American politics  Our parties are election oriented, not issue oriented

3. What do they do? Represent the people  Medium between the governed and those who govern  Will of the people is displayed through parties “Power brokers”  Bring about conflict and eventually compromise  Meant to bring us together Parties perform 5 major functions

4. Nominating Candidates Party finds and nominates candidates  Work to win the election through the party  Rally voters, raise funds Parties offer best solution to finding and nominating candidates

5. Informing and Activating Supporters Parties inform people  Get people involved based on their desires  News media and interests groups also do this Inspiring voters  Have candidate take stand on issue  Attack other candidates views  Present candidate in best way possible Win election  Ultimate goal

6. Bonding Agent Function Bond  Insurance agreement protecting a person or business against loss caused by a third party  Political parties are bonding agents that ensure the good performance of its candidates Select qualified candidates  Perform well in office  They want their party to remain in power

7. Governing US is governed by parties  Candidates selected and elected by party  Congress organized by party lines  Partisanship: firm allegiance to a political party is the basis for government action Executive and Legislative branches  Must work together to accomplish anything  Political parties offer that channel for progress

8. Acting as Watchdog Party in power  Party that controls the executive branch  Criticized by the party out of power (watchdog)  Criticism fuels voters interests and desire  Keeps party in power on best behavior