Question

check your understanding: 2 of 10
question
which of the following statements about the evolution of the two - party system is true?
select an answer
a. with growing electoral competition, the two - party system in the united states has produced more moderate parties that lack distinct positions as candidates try to appeal to moderate swing voters.
b. although the united states has had a two - party system since the 1780s, the nature of the parties has changed over time as various issues and events have caused the parties’ membership and positions to fluctuate.
c. the democratic party has remained static in its membership and policy positions, while the republican party grew more conservative after the tea party movement took hold after 2009.
d. the two - party system has undergone significant changes since the civil rights movement due to third parties successfully challenging major party candidates, resulting in both major parties taking more liberal positions on racial equality issues.

Explanation:

The two - party system in the US has been in place since the 1780s, but the nature of the parties has indeed changed over time due to various issues and events that have affected party membership and positions. Option A is incorrect as parties have not become more moderate in the way described. Option C is wrong because the Democratic Party has also changed over time. Option D is inaccurate as third - parties have not successfully challenged major parties to the extent described in terms of major parties' liberal positions on racial equality.

Answer:

B. Although the United States has had a two - party system since the 1780s, the nature of the parties has changed over time as various issues and events have caused the parties’ membership and positions to fluctuate.