1. Political Parties Produced by the League of Women Voters® of Oregon Education Fund

2. History First parties formed during the drafting of the constitution 1792 - two parties: Federalists and Anti- Federalists (base for Republican Party) 1848 – Federalists became Democrats Positioning between liberal and conservative has changed over the years Third party candidates have seldom been elected (c) 20122

3. Function of Political Parties Solicit citizen concerns Combine and prioritize those concerns Formulate public policy to address those concerns Recruit and train candidates for public office Help candidates to win elections Raise funds to support campaigns In general the US has a two-party system (c) 20123

4. Nonpartisan Offices Candidates are not affiliated with any party Nonpartisan offices include: – Most local positions – some statewide positions – all judicial positions (c) 20124

5. Nonpartisan Offices Advantages include: – Candidates not beholden to parties – Voters must assess candidates on merits – May be easier for candidates whose ideas differ from traditional parties – Voters have more responsibility for making educated decisions Disadvantages include: – Less access to fundraising systems – Voters may have more difficulty distinguishing between candidates (c) 20125

6. 6 For more information, contact the League of Women Voters® of Oregon Education Fund www.VoteOregon.org/mockelection lwvor@lwvor.org; 503-581-5722 www.VoteOregon.org/mockelection lwvor@lwvor.org