Oct. 15......

I seem to be a tad late with these…. sorry.

I- Party Identification- refers to voter’s sense of psychological attachment to a party
- Most Americans identify with one of the major political parties.
- Parties retain strength on a national level largely due to the presidency.
-Even if a party does not win the presidency it can still win state offices.
II- Significant points
-Republicans and Democrats greatly outnumber Independents.
- There are more Democrats than Republicans, however the number of Democrats has gone down over the years, benefiting Republicans and Independents.
- Factors such as race and religion have more effect on party ID than socioeconomic factors.
1. White protestants- R
2. Minorities, Jews, Catholics- D
3. Low education and income- D
4. Women are more likely to vote Democrat than men
-Republicans more likely to be conservative, Democrats more liberal.
-Activists divide even more clearly along liberal/conservative line
-Rep. platform stresses morality, Dem. Platform stresses equality.
III. Party Components
-National Convention- every 4 years to choose candidate and policies.
-National Committee- leaders from state parties
-Congressional Party Conference- try to guide each parties legislative activities.

-National Party organization has little control over state level
-State party organizations differ in strength and resources
-National organization rarely interferes on state level
IV. Fun Facts
-Parties are gaining strength
- Parties are better funded than ever before
-More Congressional votes past along part lines
-Most Americans still consider themselves Independent