1. Party identification refers to when people develop psychological attachments to specific political affiliations. This attachment determines how a person views the interactions between the government and citizens. Party affiliation began in 1939 with the establishment of rival political ideologies.
2. The figure shows how Democrats have gradually reduced due to the increase of Republicans. However, reverse trends have been observed since 2004. The number of independents has also increased during the period of 1939-2015.
3. Race and ethnicity cause a person to identify with issues affecting their community. Community leaders may also influence people to choose certain parties. Furthermore, some parties create agenda that focus on ethnic groups.
4. The gender gap refers to differences in privileges and outcomes between men and women. It is primarily caused by gender roles, stereotypes, and bias whereby men are expected to provide financial security. On the other hand, women are erroneously viewed as inferior and fit only for domestic duties.
5. Age and partisanship are motivated by mutually exclusive since they occur inversely. Older people tend to stay loyal to political parties while youths base their decisions on social issues. Youths are also more likely to vote for fellow youths rather than older persons.
6. The New Deal Coalition refers to interest groups and voting blocs that supported Democrat candidates for more than 30 years. The arrangement collapsed in 1960s due to riots and the Vietnam War. Democrat leaders were also viewed as incompetent in comparison to Franklin Roosevelt.
7. Party polarization refers to when a person’s stance on an issue is dictated by the individual’s political affiliation. It is caused by religious diversity whereby people gravitate towards significant social issues. Some of these issues include abortion and gay marriage.
8. Third parties are individuals that vie for political seats using independent parties. They cannot win elections since they lack financial backing.
9. Third parties influence American policies and politics by upholding the principles of democracy.
10. The myth of the independent voter is reflected in the fact that such people are always consistent in their voting decisions. The majority of independents also favor either Democrats or Republicans.
