Political Party Structure and Functions

Professor James Strickler discusses the structure of political parties in the U.S., focusing on the National Party Convention, its role in selecting presidential nominees, and the creation of party platforms. The lesson also covers the National Party Committee's responsibilities between conventions, including candidate recruitment and campaign support. Additionally, the function of state political parties in selecting governors is explained. The lesson concludes with a review and quiz questions.

What is the primary purpose of a National Party convention?

• To raise funds for the party

• To officially select a presidential candidate

• To organize state political parties

• To create laws

What is the significance of the National Party convention in the political party structure?

• It is a minor event with little impact

• It is the supreme authority in the party

• It only serves as a fundraising event

• It is held annually to review party policies

What happens if no candidate has a majority of delegates before the convention?

• The decision is postponed

• A new election is held

• The candidate with the most votes automatically wins

• The convention can choose any candidate

How is a party platform best described?

• A statement of the party's beliefs

• The speaker's podium

• A list of past successes

• The agenda for the convention

How often are National Party conventions held?

• Every year

• Every two years

• Every four years

• Every six years

What is one of the key roles of the National Committee?

• To choose the party's presidential nominee

• To write the party platform

• To set the nomination rules

• To recruit candidates for office

What is one of the main tasks of the National Committee between conventions?

• To dissolve state parties

• To rewrite the party's history

• To lead the party and keep it active

• To organize the next convention

Who is primarily responsible for selecting a state's governor candidate?

• The Party Platform Committee

• The National Committee

• The State Political Party

• The National Party Convention

Why do state political parties exist alongside national parties?

• To compete with national parties

• To serve similar functions at the state level

• To focus solely on fundraising

• To create state-specific laws

What is a key function of state political parties?

• To set federal policies

• To manage international relations

• To recruit and support state-level candidates

• To organize national conventions