Final answer:
The role of political parties has changed in recent years, with a decline in party influence and a rise in candidate-centered campaigns. Candidates are now less reliant on parties and can promote their own campaigns. Economic factors and advancements in communication technologies have contributed to a weakening of party systems globally.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role of political parties has changed since the era of labor-intensive politics. In the past, parties held considerable power in recruiting candidates, mobilizing voters, and securing funds. However, in recent years, there has been a decline in party influence and a rise in candidate-centered campaigns. Candidates are now less reliant on parties to run for office and can pursue their own campaigns through various forms of media. This shift has weakened party structures and led to a decrease in party activism and voter registration rates. Additionally, economic factors and advancements in communication technologies have contributed to a weakening of party systems globally. As a result, political parties play a decreasing role in US politics, and there has been a rise of populist candidates who are less dependent on traditional political structures. Overall, the role of political parties has shifted from being the main mechanism for organizing and conducting political campaigns to candidates having more autonomy in promoting their own campaigns.