Final answer:
Political parties play a critical role in government by acting as linkage institutions, vetting and recruiting candidates, providing alternatives to voters, and managing legislative processes. They differ from interest groups by seeking direct control over governance to implement their policy agendas.
Step-by-step explanation:
Role of Political Parties in Government:
Although political parties are considered extraconstitutional organizations, they play a significant role in the functioning of government. Political parties serve as linkage institutions that connect the electorate to the government by conveying the public's concerns and desires into actionable law and policy. By identifying issues that resonate with voters, political parties are able to influence elections and subsequently, the legislative process. Furthermore, political parties are responsible for the vetting and recruitment of candidates, providing alternatives to voters, and facilitating the legislative decision-making processes within government institutions.
As unique organizations, political parties differ from interest groups in that they seek direct control over government by getting their members elected. Once in power, they can implement policy changes in line with their party platform. They also act as mediators by organizing collective action and providing counterweights to the influence of interest groups. In doing so, they ensure a broader representation of the electorate and sometimes collaborate with interest groups for joint political endeavors.