1. Introduction to Political Parties December 8, 2014 Objective: To gain a basic understanding of the roles that political parties in the United States perform 1.What are 3 realistic (detailed if possible) political issues that will make you stop, listen and possibly support a political candidate? 2.What are 3 political issues that do not spark your interest and may turn you away from a candidate? 3.What MUST political parties do to make the issues that you care about (and will get you out to vote) real for your generation? (CURRENT DIVIDE)

2. I. Three components of Parties Party in Government: –Officials –Staff –Main goal 3 branches of govt. Direct Policy

3. I. Three components of Parties Party Organizations: Decentralized 1.National Committees National Agenda $ Pres. Campaign 2.50 state party systems 3.Local party systems Grassroots Educate/Motivate

4. I. Three components of Parties Party in Electorate: LARGEST –Membership (Loose) –“Dealignment” Interest Groups Media Internet/Campaigning Identification vs. Voting

5. FUNCTIONS OF POLITICAL PARTIES PLEASE Do Now: 1.Identify 3 functions of political parties 2.Explain how each function fulfills the role of linkage institution

6. Functions… I.TO WIN ELECTIONS II.Nominate (endorse) Candidates III. Raise and Spend Funds 1. Grassroots IV. Register Voters:

7. Functions cont… V. Simplify decisions for voters 1.“Shorthand” VI. Unify diverse interests

8. Functions VII. Provide Patronage (political connections) I. Norm Dicks ($5 Billion pork/earmarks) VIII. Inform Public  party platforms IX.Linkage Institution