1. Political Parties
LG: I will identify the primary functions of parties in democracies and describe changes in American parties.

2. I. Party Functions Inform public about political issues
Mobilize voters & get them to the polls
Organize diverse interests w/in society
Represent broad array of issues & link people to the political process
Definition: a group of people seeking to control the gov’t by gaining office in elections
Not found in constitution

3. II. Nominating Candidates
Caucus and direct primaries are used for states to chose candidates
Parties pick their candidates at the national convention through a majority vote cast by delegates from each state

4. III. Party Systems
Two-party system creates a centrist system that appeals to moderates
Winner-takes-all system
i. Lacks incentive for small parties

5. IV. Minor Parties aka 3rd Parties
Force major parties to address their issues
Rarely obtain electoral votes because of their narrow and extreme views
Success is measured through public discontent w/ major parties
Candidate-based parties
Ideology-based parties

6. 6.1 TABE 6.1: Minor parties in the United States
How does the percentage of popular vote received compare to the electoral votes received? How can you explain the difference in these numbers?
Activity: Discuss how the structural “rules of the game” in American politics include single, plurality, winner-take-all district elections; encourage a two-party system; and make it almost impossible for a minor or third party to win. Have the class discuss whether proportional representation electoral rules (at least in the House of Representatives and state legislatures), which would create a multiparty system, would improve politics and democracy in the United States.

7. V. Realigning Elections
Critical elections where turning points define the agenda of politics and the alignment of voters within parties change
1824: Andrew Jackson & the Democrats
1860: Civil War & rise of the Republicans
1896: A Party in Transition
1932: FDR & the New Deal alignment

8. VI. Current Trends “Solid South”/Republican South
2008 election creates the Tea Party
Influence of political parties has declined due to TV, primary elections, candidates fund own campaigns, and electorate is becoming more independent

9. 6.2
The 1932 election
The 1932 election is seen as a “critical election” resulting in an enduring realignment. Franklin Roosevelt and the Democrats enlarged the role of government in response to the Great Depression. Roosevelt is seen here greeting farmers in Georgia in October 1932 as he campaigned for the presidency.