Final answer:
A party hopes for a majority in legislative bodies, alignment with the executive branch, and unity within the party to enact a broad partisan agenda. This enables streamlined passage of aligned legislation and control over key legislative positions and committee assignments.
Step-by-step explanation:
For a party to be in the best position to enact a broad partisan agenda, a party hopes for a majority in legislative houses, alignment with the executive branch, and party unity. When a party controls a majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, they can streamline the passage of legislation that aligns with their platform. For example, a Republican majority might focus on states rights, charter schools, and pro-life policies. It's also beneficial when the president is of the same party, as presidential support can increase the chances of policy proposals being considered seriously.
Moreover, party composition in committees is crucial as it influences the legislative agenda. The majority party controls key leadership positions and committee assignments, which can aid in advancing their policy goals. Parties must be wary, however, of the diversity of opinions within their ranks that can lead to internal disagreements, which may hinder legislation. Party success can also be influenced by local election laws and their ability to adapt to political differences across states and local areas.