Political Party Organization and Functions

The video tutorial discusses the decentralized nature of major political parties in the U.S., highlighting the lack of strong leadership and the impact of federalism. It explains the nomination process, including primaries and caucuses, and the role of delegates. The national party structure is detailed, covering the national convention, chairperson, and campaign committees. Finally, it describes the state and local party organization, emphasizing the division into districts, wards, and precincts.

What is one reason for the decentralized nature of major political parties?

• Strong central leadership

• Federalism distributing power

• Unified party goals

• Lack of state-level parties

Who are delegates pledged to during the nomination process?

• The vice-presidential candidate

• The presidential candidate

• The state governor

• The party chairperson

How does a caucus differ from a primary?

• Caucuses are held online

• Caucuses involve direct voting

• Caucuses involve meetings and discussions

• Caucuses are only for independent candidates

What is the main purpose of the national convention?

• To elect state governors

• To nominate the president and vice president

• To create local party policies

• To dissolve the party

What role does the national chairperson play in the party?

• Organizes local events

• Drafts party legislation

• Represents the party in media

• Manages state elections

What is the function of the congressional campaign committee?

• To organize the national convention

• To write party rules

• To find and support candidates for office

• To manage party finances

How are states divided for party organization purposes?

• Into counties

• Into congressional districts

• Into cities

• Into regions

What is the smallest political unit in large cities?

• A precinct

• A ward

• An apartment building

• A district

Who are the party activists?

• Those who run for office

• Those who organize party events

• Those who vote in every election

• Those who hold government positions

What is the role of the party in government?

• To organize party conventions

• To create party policies

• To represent the party in government

• To manage party finances