5.1 Connecting Citizens with Government

stated that public views are refined and enhanced "by passing them through the medium of a chosen body of citizens, whose wisdom may best discern the true interest of their country."

Federalist No. 10

wrote an essay that outlined a vision of Congress as a body of chosen individuals that the public could submit their ideas to for debate, refinement, and, ultimately, implementation for the public good.

James Madison

are becoming increasingly elaborate and long, costing millions of dollars, and attracting the public's attention in any way they can.

campaigns

A party that does not hold the majority in Congress often keeps the party in power from taking complete control, and they can publicly criticize actions of a President who was elected by the opposite party.

checking the other party

Both parties believe in liberty, equality, and individualism. Neither advocates that the Constitution be discarded. Both parties accept the election process and concede defeat to the winners.

consensus of values

During early American history politicians tended to take sides, starting with the debate over the Constitution, and continuing with the disagreements between two of George Washington's cabinet members — Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson.

historical influence

The well-publicized discussions between parties help to inform citizens about important issues and present alternative ways of solving societal problems.

informing the public

organize people with common interests and attitudes to influence government to support their points of view.

interest groups

play a vital role in connecting citizens to the government and without them, a democracy would be very difficult to maintain.

linkage institutions

play an important role in connecting people to government through television, newspapers, radio, and the Internet.

media

Congress and the state legislatures are organized according to party affiliations.

organizing the gov't

seeks political power by electing people to office so that its positions and philosophy become public policy.

political parties

Parties select candidates for many elected positions in American politics. They present policy alternatives for voters.

running candidates for political parties

In contrast to systems with proportional representation, the winner in American elections is the one who receives the largest number of votes. The winner does not need to have more than 50 percent, but only one vote more than his or her opponents.

winner-take-all system