Two-Party System: A Featured Controversy from Issues & Controversies
A Midterm Elections Spotlight from Issues & Controversies:
TWO-PARTY SYSTEM: Would More Major Political Parties Benefit the United States?
Would having more major political parties benefit the United States? Be sure to check out Issues & Controversies’ complete and unbiased coverage of this important issue. Here is a sample of the pro/con arguments on both sides of the issue.
| SUPPORTERS ARGUE | OPPONENTS ARGUE |
| The two-party system is broken. Rabid partisanship has gridlocked government, triggered political violence, and created a hostile stalemate where each party increasingly caters to its fringes, leaving voters feeling disenchanted and unrepresented. A multiparty system would present a greater diversity of voices, reduce partisan hostility, engage the electorate, and reunify the country. | The two-party system has served Americans well for generations and will survive today’s partisanship. Both major parties are big-tent coalitions that aptly represent the disparate views held by Americans and are flexible enough to adapt when needed. More parties will bring about more gridlock and confusion. The U.S. electoral system is not built to adapt to frequently changing coalitions. |
The pro/con article links to rich related resources that enhance the debate. Students and researchers can explore the “By the Numbers” data, primary sources that provide context, debate videos, NPR podcasts, infographics, editorials, a Reuters® newsfeed, a chronology, and a bibliography and further resources. Plus, discussion questions are provided to inspire critical thinking and analysis.
What Is the Issues & Controversies?
Issues & Controversies is a multimedia solution that helps students understand contemporary issues, assess different perspectives, distinguish fact from opinion, reach their own conclusions, and build critical thinking and writing skills. It features balanced pro/con articles and primary sources for current events, civics instruction, and class discussion.
