The American political system, because of its structure, tends to decentralize political power and has a significant effect on political parties. It is Federalism, or the dividing of power between the national government and individual state governments, that makes it harder for political parties to do their jobs. Not only is there the American government, but also 50 additional state governments. And in each state then, 50 different democratic or republican parties can form. And these parties that form in each state can be and are somewhat different from one another. These differences can make it hard for those people in the party to get along and accomplish their (electoral) goals.
A logical response to American political heterogeneity would be the formation of different “branches” of the same party in various states. American’s interests are so diverse that diverse parties are needed. The decentralization of political power in part causes these different opinions because each state may have different concerns and interests. Unfortunately, decentralization does have the potential to impede effective partisan action. The party has become quite diverse and divisions have been created throughout the party. For example, The Wisconsin Democrats may see things a bit differently than the Wyoming Democrats, and may not be able to work together.
When I think of dissention within a party, the 2008 democratic primary race comes to mind. The race for delegates was close, and some democrats supported Hilary Clinton, while others favored Barack Obama. The whole primary race was one that created division within the Democratic Party. This had the potential to cost the democrats the Presidency.
Right now it’s a bit difficult for me to identify the leader of the Republican Party. What I’m hoping for though is that democrats and republicans can “get in line” behind the new president. In the news Americans hear about Obama’s push for bipartisanship. But not only does this mean democrats working with republicans and vice versa, it also means democrats working with democrats and republicans with republicans.
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I agree that different branches of a political party similiar to federalism in our government would be a good idea in a way to eliminate or "cure" decentralization...but I dont think our government and politicians would allow for that to fly.
ReplyDeleteHow would Republicans falling in line behind President Obama help them win office?
ReplyDeleteObama recently has been visiting cities throughout America and putting a "human face" on the economic crisis. It seems this is also a good strategy. Talking to Americans about the economy will most likely get them to contact their state reps and senators. Regardless of political party affiliation, the office holders will want to further the interests of those who put them there so re-election becomes an almost certain outcome. And if the citizens want the economic stimulus bill to pass, any Republican would be smart to vote for it. Getting behind Obama in this regard would most likely capture a re-election for the Republicans.
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