1Patronage
The practice of granting favors to reward party loyalty.
2One-party system
A system in which one political party exists, becuse the government tolerates no other opposition.
3Two-party system
A system in which two major parties compete for power.
4Reformist
A person or political party that wishes to improve or better something, usually in the government.
5Coalition Government
A government formed by several parties who combine forces to obtain a majority.
6Third Party
Any other political party other than one of the two major political parties.
7Single-issue Party
A politcal party that focuses on one major social, economic, or moral issue.
8Ideological Party
A political party that has a particular set of ideas about how to change society overall rather than focusing on one issue.
9Splinter Party
A political party that splits away from a major party because of some disagreement.
10Single-member Districts
An electoral district in which only one candidate is elected to each office.
11Liberal
The belief that the proper role of government is to actively promote health, education, and justice.
12Conservative
The belief that the government should play a limited role in citizens lives.
13Moderates
The belief in both liberal and conservative viewpoints.
14Polarized
To break up into opposing groups.
15Centrist
A person whose views tend to be moderate.
16Planks
Individual part of a political partys platform.
17Disenfranchise
To deprive of the right to vote.
18Mid-term Elections
A congressional election that takes place halfway through the president's term in office.
19Legislative Referendum
A special election in which the legislature refers a measure to the voters for their approval.
20Popular Referendum
A special election in which voters can vote to approve or repeal laws passed by legislatures.
21Cross-pressured Voters
A voter who is caught between conflicting elements in his or her identity.