Parties and Elections in America: The Electoral Process

by Mark D. Brewer, L. Sandy Maisel

Provides a comprehensive introduction to the American political process, covering national, state, and local elections, nominating processes, voting regulations, campaigning and campaign finance, the role of political parties, and influence of the media.

448 pages, Paperback

First published October 15, 2015

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Three and a half. This work is a whirlwind overview of the history and significance of political parties in the United States, and their relevance in and influence over the American electoral process. Updated sections on the role of media are particularly salient heading into the 2020 presidential election cycle, which is covered until the print deadline for this book. The role of Donald Trump's presidency is frequently questioned, and the authors, still amidst his first term and without knowing the outcome of the 2020 election, have an understandably hard time placing this abnormal political period in context ("it's too early to tell" is a frequent refrain). Overall, though, this is a worthwhile survey of political parties in the electoral process, and some of the critical factors that have influenced their roles, including media, current events, campaign finance, and the Internet.