Functions of Political Parties

1
Functions of Political Parties
2
Functions

• Nominate Candidates through primary elections
  More candidates-centered politics than
  party-centered politics.
• Raise and spend campaign funds---declining
  importance due to Super PACs (political action
  committees)
• Register Voters
• Simplify decisions for voting decision---use of
  party lens by voters voters know republican v.
  democrat

3
Functions (Contd)

• Raise and spend campaign funds---declining
  importance due to Super PACs (political action
  committees
• Register Voters
• Simplify decisions for voting decision---use of
  party lens by voters voters know republican v.
  democrat

4
Functions (Contd)

• Unify Diverse Interests
• FDRs grand coalition (labor unions, blue collar
  workers, minorities, farmers, intellectuals)
• However, to appeal to wide variety of party
  members, parties must not take strong stands
  (middle of the road)

5
Functions (Contd)

• Act as moderating influence on govt
• To win elections, parties must usually nominate
  moderate candidates who appeal to vast center of
  the American electorate.
• Contrasts with European multiparty systems where
  fringe parties and candidates are common

6
Functions (Contd)

• Inform public through party platforms
• Provide loyal opposition (after honeymoon
  period)
• Agents of political socialization
• Linking mechanism between people and government