Final answer:
The polarization of political parties in the U.S. has become increasingly intense in recent years due to the disappearance of moderate politicians, decreased bipartisanship, and ideological shifts within the parties.
Step-by-step explanation:
The polarization of political parties in the U.S. has become increasingly intense in recent years. This can be attributed to several factors:
- The disappearance of moderate politicians: Moderates have found it harder to win elections, leading to a lack of moderating voices within the parties.
- Decreased bipartisanship: The era of bipartisanship has ended, with parties now competing bitterly against each other and cross-party collaboration becoming rare.
- Ideological shifts: The Democratic and Republican parties have become more ideologically divided, with moderate members being edged out and more ideologically motivated candidates winning elections.
These factors have contributed to the increasing intensity of political polarization in the U.S., making it challenging for elected officials to achieve their policy goals.