Final answer:
A significant shift in elections regarding the relationship between states and parties is the move from legislative to popular election of presidential electors and the increasing importance of national issues in voters' decision-making. These changes have transformed how parties mobilize voters and have led to a more pronounced two-party system.
Step-by-step explanation:
A major shift in elections regarding states' relation to political parties has been the transformation in the way electors for the President are chosen and how voters are mobilized and organized by parties. Initially, congressional caucuses played a central role in determining candidates, but over time, with the rise of the Democratic Party and the expansion of suffrage, the electorate began to have more direct involvement. States moved toward selecting electors by popular vote rather than legislative appointment, signifying the importance of the popular vote in presidential elections.
Furthermore, the second party system emerged as states expanded the electorate, dropping property qualifications, and moving towards popular election of electoral college representatives. This democratization of the election process coupled with changes in party organization and strategy led to an increase in voter mobilization at all levels of government. Modern political dynamics have further shifted, with national issues taking precedence over local ones and increased straight-ticket voting patterns reflecting stronger national-level party identification among voters.
The way political parties operate has evolved significantly since the early years of the republic. The formation and strengthening of national parties like the Democrats and the Republicans, the mobilization of voters based on broader coalitions and issues, and the increased alignment of voters with national party ideology have all contributed to profound changes in the relationship between states and parties. The challenge for third parties in this two-party system has typically been significant, illustrating the complexity of today's political landscape and the importance of parties in shaping public policy.