John H. Aldrich

Professor of Political Science John H Aldrich

Why did the United States develop political parties? How and why do party alignments change? Are the party-centered elections of the past better for democratic politics than the candidate-centered elections of the present? In this landmark book, John Aldrich goes beyond the clamor of arguments over whether American political parties are in resurgence or decline and undertakes a wholesale reexamination of the foundations of the American party system. Surveying three critical episodes in the development of American political parties—from their formation in the 1790s to the Civil War—Aldrich shows how parties serve to combat three fundamental problems of democracy: how to regulate the number of people seeking public office; how to mobilize voters; and how to achieve and maintain the majorities needed to accomplish goals once in office. Overcoming these obstacles, argues Aldrich, is possible only with political parties. Aldrich brings this innovative account up to date by looking at the profound changes in the character of political parties since World War II. In the 1960s, he shows, parties started to become candidate-centered organizations that are servants to their office seekers and officeholders. Aldrich argues that this development has revitalized parties, making them stronger, and more vital, with well-defined cleavages and highly effective governing ability.

The Origin and Transformation of Political Parties in America

Why Parties?

James E. Alt

Richard McKelvey's classic papers, accompanied by original essays by leading names in the field

The Legacy of Richard D. McKelvey's Most Influential Writings

Positive Changes in Political Science

Jamie L. Carson

Brad T. Gomez

Jennifer Lee Merolla

Change and Continuity in the 2020 and 2022 Elections analyzes the most recent presidential and congressional elections, voter turnout, and the social forces, party loyalties, and issues that affect voting behavior. This accessible, data-driven text helps readers understand the elections and what the results mean for the future of American politics.

John H. Aldrich

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