US POLITICAL PARTIES

Question 1

Explain and analyse three ways parties in the USA have undergone significant changes over the past 50 years.

Answer 1

1. Polarization
   • Parties have become ideologically distinct.
   • Example: Republicans embracing Trumpism, Democrats moving left under Bernie Sanders.
   • Analysis: Reduced bipartisanship but increased voter clarity.
2. Realignment of the South
   • Shift from Democratic to Republican dominance.
   • Example: Reagan’s success in the 1980s cemented Republican control.
   • Analysis: Reflects changing demographics and priorities.
3. Increased Candidate-Centered Campaigns
   • Focus on individuals over parties.
   • Example: Obama’s 2008 campaign emphasized “hope and change” rather than party.
   • Analysis: Weakens party influence over candidates.

Question 2

Explain and analyse three ways the Republicans and Democrats differ on policy.

Answer 2

1. Healthcare
   • Democrats favor government intervention; Republicans oppose.
   • Example: Affordable Care Act (2010) passed without Republican support.
   • Analysis: Reflects contrasting views on federal power.
2. Gun Control
   • Republicans support gun rights; Democrats advocate stricter laws.
   • Example: Republican opposition to assault weapon bans post-Uvalde shooting.
   • Analysis: Influenced by party coalitions (e.g., NRA backing Republicans).
3. Taxation
   • Democrats favor progressive taxes; Republicans support tax cuts.
   • Example: Trump’s Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (2017).
   • Analysis: Reflects ideological divide on wealth redistribution.

Question 3

Explain and analyse three main factions in the Republican Party.

Answer 3

1. Trumpists/MAGA Movement
   • Focus on populism, nationalism, and anti-establishment policies.
   • Example: Trump’s influence in the 2024 primaries and focus on “America First.”
   • Analysis: Energizes the base but divides the party and alienates moderates.
2. Traditional Conservatives
   • Emphasize fiscal responsibility and small government.
   • Example: Mitch McConnell opposing excessive federal spending.
   • Analysis: Balances Trumpism but struggles to retain influence.
3. Religious Right
   • Social conservatives prioritizing issues like abortion and religious freedoms.
   • Example: Evangelical support for anti-abortion laws post-Dobbs (2022).
   • Analysis: Strong voting bloc but controversial among younger voters.

Question 4

Explain and analyse three arguments that third parties and independents are insignificant in the US.

Answer 4

1. Winner-Takes-All Electoral System
   • FPTP makes it hard for third parties to win seats.
   • Example: Ross Perot gained 19% of the vote in 1992 but no Electoral College votes.
   • Analysis: System favors major parties and limits third-party impact.
2. Lack of Funding and Resources
   • Campaign finance laws and donor focus disadvantage smaller parties.
   • Example: Libertarian Party struggles to compete against Republican and Democrat fundraising.
   • Analysis: Limits reach and visibility of third parties.
3. Ballot Access Laws
   • Strict requirements hinder third-party candidates.
   • Example: Green Party’s difficulties in getting on state ballots.
   • Analysis: Structural barriers reinforce two-party dominance.

Question 5

Explain three features of the organization of the main parties.

Answer 5

1. Decentralized Structure
   • State parties operate independently.
   • Example: Differences in Democratic platforms in California (progressive) vs. Texas (moderate).
   • Analysis: Reflects federalism but weakens national cohesion.
2. Candidate-Centered Campaigns
   • Focus on individuals rather than party platforms.
   • Example: Biden’s 2020 campaign emphasized leadership over broader Democratic policies.
   • Analysis: Weakens party control but appeals to personal preferences.
3. National Committees
   • Coordinate campaigns and funding.
   • Example: Republican National Committee (RNC) fundraising for 2024 elections.
   • Analysis: Provides resources but limited control over candidates.