What are the two major political parties in the United States?

The two major political parties in the United States are the Democratic Party and the Republican Party. These parties dominate the political landscape and heavily influence the electoral process, shaping policy decisions and national discourse.

The Democratic Party, founded in the early 19th century, traditionally emphasizes social equality, government involvement in the economy, and progressive reforms. The Republican Party, established in the mid-19th century, typically advocates for free market principles, limited government, and individual liberties. Their influence is reflected in the majority of elected offices across federal, state, and local levels.

While other parties like the Green Party, Libertarian Party, Independent Party, and others exist and play roles in specific elections or movements, they do not have the same level of national influence or structure as the Democratic and Republican parties. This established two-party system has become a defining feature of the U.S. political framework, where elections are predominantly contested between these two parties.