Examines the role parties and elections play in American politics. Students will develop an understanding of: the historical foundations of the two-party system in the United States, including the role of major realigning elections; the major contemporary coalitions supporting each major party; and, the who, what, where and when of American elections. Students will write a significant research paper examining the electoral situation in a specific state.(Subfield Designation: US) (A.R.T.S Designation: R)