Final answer:
Party polarization is the division of political parties into more ideologically distinct and extreme positions, resulting in decreased bipartisanship and legislative gridlock. It has been influenced by factors such as voter sorting, the decline of moderates in Congress, and redistricting practices. The implications include reduced legislative success, greater partisan division, and potential instability in policy outcomes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of Party Polarization
Party polarization refers to the process by which political parties move away from the center ground and become more ideologically distinct and extreme in their policies and beliefs. This results in political, social, and legislative division, where compromise and cooperation between parties become increasingly difficult. Over time, this phenomenon can influence not only the legislators and their policymaking but also the electorate, leading to greater partisan division among voters.
Main Explanations for Partisan Polarization
One key explanation for partisan polarization is the sorting thesis, which suggests that voters' shifting party allegiance in response to changes in party positions has led to a more ideologically sorted electorate since the 1950s. Another factor contributing to polarization is the decline of moderates in Congress since the 1990s, reducing bipartisanship and increasing party competition. Confounding factors such as redistricting, also known as gerrymandering, and a general shift towards more extreme partisan positions are also considered to be influencing the phenomenon.
Implications of Partisan Polarization
Party polarization leads to fewer legislative successes and more gridlock within the governmental process, as bipartisan cooperation diminishes. Politicians become more likely to adhere strictly to party lines rather than engaging with the opposition, which undermines collaboration and compromise. This could result in policies that swing from one extreme to the other with each election cycle, a situation that risks legislative instability and ineffectiveness.