Final answer:
American politics is being shaped by trends such as increased political polarization, the influence of media and fundraising on politics, the rise of candidate-centered campaigns, changing demographics, and the enduring dominance of a two-party system.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are several trends shaping American politics in the current era. One significant trend is the increase in political polarization, where the partisan divide between Democrats and Republicans is becoming more pronounced. Another trend is the growing influence of media and fundraising demands on elections and governance. This media influence and the rise of fundraising are contributing to candidate-centered campaigns rather than party-centered politics. Additionally, changing demographics and debates over issues such as immigration and same-sex marriage reflect shifts in societal values, impacting political debates and party platforms. Finally, electoral rules and a two-party system continue to dominate the political landscape, although there has been some evolution and shifting of party coalitions over time.
Looking at the specific trends that illustrate the declining influence of political parties, the rise of candidate-centered campaigns (option c) is most indicative of this shift, as candidates are increasingly building their own brands and voter bases independent of party structures.