Understanding Political Parties in American Politics

What is the primary goal of a political party?

• To entertain political debates

• To support interest groups

• To win control of government

• To influence policies

What is mainly the job of interest groups?

• To influence elected officials

• To organize parties

• To recruit candidates

• To win elections

What does facilitating collective action in the electoral process mean?

• Organizing political debates

• Forming interest groups

• Making it easier for voters to form groups

• Influencing policy making

Why might a businessman affiliate with the Republican Party?

• Because of their educational reforms

• Because of their stance on healthcare

• Because of their entertainment policies

• Because of their business-friendly policies

What is one reason political parties facilitate policy making?

• To influence voters

• To organize political debates

• To allow politicians to work together

• To support interest groups

What problem do political parties help to deal with regarding politicians' ambition?

• Financial issues

• Personal interests

• Lack of public interest

• Competition among similarly minded politicians

What is the first main function of political parties in the U.S.?

• Recruit candidates

• Influence national government

• Get out the vote

• Facilitate electoral choice

What is necessary for a good candidate for office?

• A background in finance

• A history of public service

• A strong social media presence

• An unblemished personal record

What is the nomination process?

• Choosing a party's representative for an election

• Organizing political debates

• Voting in the general election

• Selecting interest group leaders

What are primaries?

• Policy-making sessions

• General elections

• Elections to choose party candidates

• Interest group meetings