List of Political Parties in the USA

However [political parties] may now and then answer popular ends, they are likely, in the course of time and things, to become potent engines, by which cunning, ambitious, and unprincipled men will be enabled to subvert the power of the people and to usurp for themselves the reins of government, destroying afterward the very engines which have lifted them to unjust dominion.” This famous saying by George Washington still holds relevance today, but was he right in his prediction about political parties in the USA.

The rich history of the United States began with no party dominating the political discourse. The founding fathers, especially George Washington, were against party formation and believed that it would divide the people of the country. Why did political parties in the USA emerge then? What impact did they have on the political discourse and American history? Let us explore all this and much more in this blog. 

1) Democratic Party: 

The Democratic Party is a major party of the USA. With a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, the party is commonly associated with progressive ideals. Its fundamental principles revolve around achieving social and economic equality, implementing healthcare reform, and championing environmental conservation. Democrats generally advocate for robust government intervention in industry regulation, an expansion of social services, and addressing climate change. When it comes to types of political economies, Democrats usually favor capitalism. 

2) Republican Party: 

The Republican Party serves as the other prominent political party in the United States. This party upholds a conservative ideology that underscores limited government involvement, free-market principles, and individual freedoms. Republicans endorse lower taxes, the reduction of regulations, and a robust national defense. The party boasts a diverse coalition, encompassing fiscal conservatives, social conservatives, and libertarians. 

3) Libertarian Party: 

The Libertarian Party was founded by David Nolan in 1971. It called for lesser government intervention in both social and economic matters of the USA. Moreover, it advocated for greater individual liberty and a laissez-faire economic system. The party has failed to create any major impact, however, it has influenced political discourse and managed to reduce government spending. 

4) Green Party: 

The Green Party was founded in 2001 by Ralph Nader. Although it has not gained any widespread popularity or succeeded in winning any major seats in the election, it has influenced government policy on the environment. Moreover, the party champions libertarian principles, social justice and supports grassroots democracy. 

5) Constitution Party: 

The Constitution Party was founded in 1992. It advocates for strict adherence to the U.S. Constitution, limited government, and conservative social values. It has had limited electoral success in state and local elections but has not gained a significant national presence.

6) Reform Party: 

The Reform Party was founded in 1995 by Ross Perot. Its main aim was to finance and regulate the federal budget. It also championed for finance reforms and term limits for US presidents. The party was able to win significantly and garner support in both the 1992 and 1996 elections. However, its influence diminished over time. 

7) Socialist Party: 

The Socialist Party of America, founded in 1901, promoted socialist policies, including workers’ rights, public ownership of utilities, and universal healthcare. It had some success at the local level but declined during the Red Scare of the early 20th century.

8) Liberty Union Party: 

The party was founded in Vermont in the year 1970. It called for greater progressive reforms and focused on anti-war policies. It was able to win some seats and gain some prominence in the Vermont state elections, however, it did not gain major prominence nationally. 

9) Progressive Party: 

The Progressive Party, founded by Theodore Roosevelt in 1912, supported progressive reforms. It advocated for women’s suffrage, and labor reforms, and called for greater trust-building among institutions. It significantly impacted the 1912 election but faded after Roosevelt’s defeat.

10) American Independent Party: 

Founded in 1967 by segregationist George Wallace, the American Independent Party opposed civil rights legislation and supported states’ rights. Wallace’s 1968 presidential campaign had some success in Southern states but failed to gain national popularity. 

11) Know-Nothing-Party: 

One of the most influential political parties in the USA, The Know-nothing-party was founded in 1850. It was anti-catholic and anti-immigrant. They also advocated for the extension of the naturalization period for immigrants. Additionally, the party focused on preserving the jobs and rights of the native Americans. It gained popularity briefly but faded due to internal divisions and the onset of the Civil War.

12) Free Soil Party: 

The party was founded in 1848 and opposed the expansion of slavery into the newly acquired states. The party had ideals similar to that of the Republican party and later the two parties merged into one. The party influenced American politics by speaking against slavery.