Political Parties and Interest Groups

What is each political party's platform position on the role of government?

• Republican - Limited government, Democrat - Expanded government

• Republican - Expanded government, Democrat - Limited government

• Republican - No government, Democrat - Total government

• Republican - Total government, Democrat - No government

Who has the largest impact on a person's political beliefs?

• Media

• Family

• Schools

• Friends

Why did the two-party system develop in the United States?

• To create more political parties

• To simplify the electoral process

• To ensure a balance of power

• To eliminate political competition

What is the main goal (function) of political parties?

• To entertain the public

• To organize elections

• To influence government policy

• To create laws

Who does the "watchdog function" of political parties most benefit?

• The government

• The public

• The media

• The political parties themselves

What is the spoiler role of 3rd parties?

• To win elections

• To split the vote

• To create new laws

• To support major parties

How is membership in either of the political parties determined?

• By age

• By income

• By personal choice

• By education level

What is the main goal of interest groups?

• To win elections

• To influence public policy

• To create new laws

• To entertain the public

How are political parties & interest groups similar?

• Both aim to win elections

• Both seek to influence public policy

• Both create laws

• Both entertain the public

List three ways in which people can participate in politics.

• Voting, Protesting, Donating

• Watching TV, Reading, Sleeping

• Shopping, Eating, Traveling

• Playing sports, Singing, Dancing