Final answer:
America's weak party organization is indicated by broad constituents, a gravitation toward centrist positions, less control over candidate selection, and reduced patronage. The decentralized party system faces challenges from populist leaders and shifting party loyalties, complicated by increasing partisan polarization and voter distrust.
Step-by-step explanation:
The four characteristics that best describe America's weak party organization are indicative of a system with broad constituents, which often gravitates toward centrist positions, where the party does not exclusively choose candidates anymore, and exhibits less patronage compared to more robust party systems. Weak party discipline and a decentralized approach to decision-making further underscore these features. Notably, the U.S. party system is characterized by fifty different state parties that effectuate a bottom-up structure, enabling significant shifts in party loyalties and the preferences of the electorate.
While party organizations work to build coalitions to win elections and influence public policy, they must contend with challenges like the rise of populist leaders and shifting party coalitions. Moreover, there is a critical role for political parties to offer voters clear policy choices and serve as a check on the ruling government, ensuring accountability. However, the current climate features issues like increasing partisan polarization and a growing distrust among voters, which can undermine the traditional functions of parties.