U.S. Political Parties and Presidential Elections

Since 1852, every U.S. president has been from either the Republican or Democratic parties. Democrats typically support higher taxes for more government programs, while Republicans favor lower taxes and smaller government. Although these two parties dominate, smaller parties like the Libertarian, Constitution, Socialist, and Green parties, as well as independents, exist. These third parties can significantly impact presidential elections by drawing votes away from major party candidates, sometimes affecting the election outcome.

Which two major political parties have all U.S. presidents been members of since 1852?

• Republican and Democratic

• Democratic and Green

• Constitution and Socialist

• Republican and Libertarian

What do Democrats generally support to fund more government programs?

• Smaller government

• Higher taxes

• Lower taxes

• Privatization

Which of the following is NOT one of the smaller political parties mentioned?

• Federalist

• Socialist

• Constitution

• Libertarian

What is a characteristic of independents in the U.S. political system?

• They are affiliated with the Democratic party

• They are affiliated with the Republican party

• They are affiliated with the Green party

• They are not affiliated with any party

How can third parties influence presidential elections?

• By winning the majority of votes

• By taking away votes from major party candidates

• By forming coalitions with major parties

• By funding major party campaigns