A party that values principle stands on issues above all else, including winning. It claims to have a comprehensive view of American society and government radically different from that of the established parties.
National Chairman
A paid, full time manager of a party's day-to-day whork who is elected by the national committee.
Two-party System
An electoral system with two dominant parties that compete in state or national elections. Third parties have little chance of winning.
Solidary Incentives
The social rewards taht lead people to join local or state political organizations. People who find politics fun and want to meet others who share their interests are said to respond to solidary incentives.
Superdelegates
Party leaders and elected officials who become delegates to the national convention without having to run in primaries or caucuses. Party rules determine the percentage of delegate seats reserved for party officials
Office-blot ballot
A ballot listing all candidates of a given office nder the name of that office; also called a "Massachusetts" ballot.
Political Machine
A party organization that recruits its member by dispensing patronage and that is characterized by a high degree of leadership control over meber activity.
Sponsored party
A local or state political party that is largely staffed and funded by another organization with established networks in the community.
Mugwumps or Progressives
The faction in the Republican party of the 1890's to the 1910's composed of reformers who opposed the use of patronage and party bosses and favored the ledaership of experts. After 1910 they evolved into a nonpartisan, "good government" movement.
Straight Ticket
Voting for candidates who are all of the same party. For example, voting for Republican candidates for senator, representative, and president.
