Final answer:
A 'competent party' generally signifies an individual or group with the legal ability to engage in contracts or legal actions. In U.S. politics, it implies political parties' effectiveness in mobilizing voters, forming coalitions, and shaping policy. The U.S. party system, despite challenges, needs competency to maintain democracy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term 'competent party' does not directly relate to descriptions of U.S. political parties or electoral systems. However, a 'competent party' generally refers to an individual or group with the necessary legal capacity, authority, or capability to enter into a binding contract or to partake in legal proceedings. In the context of U.S. political parties, competency may pertain to their ability to effectively compete for votes, form coalitions, and influence public policy.
Looking at the historical context, U.S. political parties have undergone several changes, and their competency has been reflected in their ability to mobilize voters and adapt to changing preferences, as mentioned in the passage about critical elections and realignment. The description provided by the American Political Science Association's (APSA) critique highlights the importance of having distinct and cohesive parties that can offer clear policy choices and act as a 'loyal opposition' to maintain democratic checks and balances.
The U.S. party system faces challenges such as the formation of third parties, competing effectively for the moderate majority, and remaining cohesive and accountable. Yet, it is crucial for the health of the democracy that parties remain competent in reflecting the electorate's preferences and acting upon them through governance.