The United States of America is a constitutional republic, with elements of democracy within. The political parties that dominate the United States are the Republican party, which is seen as conservative, and the Democrat party, seen as liberal. The current party in power is the Democrat party. Unlike most other constitutional nations, the United States, only has two major parties, leading voters, often in a very uncomfortable position. There is the possibility of a person running as an independent.
Republicans
For a more detailed treatment, see Republican party.
The Republican party can trace its origins to anti-slavery modernizers, in the Northern states, in 1854. It's primary goal was to stop the expansion of slavery within the United States. In 1860, the first republican president, Abraham Lincoln was elected into office. It's ideas can be reflected in its slogan, "Free labour, Free Land, Free men". By the 20th century, however, it's views shifted, to become the party of business and capitalism, similar to the Tories of Parliament. During the 20th century, it's key winning points were opposition to the League of Nations, business interests, and lower taxes. This all worked well, until the 1920 crash, which left voters shaken, and unwilling to support business interests. That term, the Democrat, Franklin D Roosevelt was elected into office. Republicans criticized his actions, equating his New Deal, to class warfare, and socialism. The views of the GOP continued to shift right, and the winning ticket for the 1996 elections were Social Conservatism, Supply side economics, and the first appearance of actively shrinking government. In 2008, republicans were defeated by a landslide, with Democrat Barack Obama being elected into office.
Democrats
For a more detailed treatment, see Democrat Party.
The democrat party, is the more liberal party of the two, and is known for an extremely social liberal worldview. It is one of the oldest political parties in the world, with only the Tories, of Great Britain older. During the 1800s, it had a very conservative view on the world, advocating lower taxes, states rights, and a strict adherence to the Constitution(along with the "leave it alone ideology") However, during the 19th century, it's views began shifting to the left, advocating a living constitution, bigger government, and a socially progressive agenda. This ticket won it the 1930 election of Franklin Roosevelt. After that, it lost severely, for several years, until Clinton became president, with the environment agenda. It was also under his administration, that global warming became known, outside of the scientific community. Today, democrats hold 41 percent of American voters.
Independents
For a more detailed treatment, see Independents.
The independent viewpoint can be quite fluid, as it is not a definitive party. Traditionally, independents serve as a compromise, between the right Republicans, and the left Democrats. However, the platform is appealing to extremists, as well, such as the American Nazi party.