Which two parties are considered the dominant political parties in the U.S.?

The dominant political parties in the United States are the Democrats and Republicans. This two-party system has been a defining feature of American politics for over a century. The Democratic Party generally represents more liberal viewpoints, advocating for social equity, environmental issues, and government intervention in the economy. In contrast, the Republican Party typically embodies more conservative values, focusing on free-market principles, limited government, and traditional social norms.

This longstanding dominance is reflected in various political arenas, from local elections to national contests such as the presidency, where candidates from these parties have consistently been the primary contenders for office. The structure of the electoral system, particularly the use of first-past-the-post voting in most states, also reinforces this two-party dynamic, making it difficult for smaller parties to gain significant traction in elections. Therefore, understanding the roles of these two parties is crucial for comprehending the American political landscape.