Question

Since political parties represent broad coalitions, what tensions and internal conflicts do parties face that must be managed for the coalition to hold together to achieve electoral and policy success?

1) Parties typically can easily pass all of their major policy priorities.
2) Party leaders rarely face divisions within their parties.
3) Parties never face disagreements over which candidate should be the party's nominee.
4) All of the above

Answer 1

Political parties must manage tensions and conflicts within their coalitions to achieve electoral and policy success.

Step-by-step explanation:

Political parties in the United States must manage tensions and internal conflicts to hold their coalitions together for electoral and policy success.

Parties face disagreements and conflicts over major policy priorities, as they need to balance broad appeal with the interests of their diverse coalition members. For example, if a party takes too narrow a position on issues, it may marginalize itself, but if it takes too broad a position, internal disagreements may arise.

Furthermore, parties can experience divisions within their ranks. Party leaders may face challenges from factions within their parties that have different ideologies, priorities, or strategies. Internal conflicts can weaken the party's ability to pass legislation and achieve electoral success.