Explain the evolution of Texas from a one-party Democratic state to a two-party state that has come to be dominated by Republicans
What will be an ideal response?
Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Explain the distinction between a one-party system and a two-party system.
2. Trace the progression of Republican electoral success beginning no later than the election of Bill Clements as governor in 1978. Ideally, a student will also mention the earlier election of John Tower to the U.S. Senate. As part of this, students should note changes in majority status in legislative chambers, sweeps of statewide offices, change in majority status in U.S. congressional delegation, etc.
3. Explain that Republican electoral success has been a top-down process.
4. Explain the growth of Republican Party identification in the electorate.
5. Explain the roles of national parties and policies (e.g., civil rights, social welfare programs), influence within the Texas Democratic Party (growth of minorities and liberals), migration to Texas of Republicans from other states, and Republican Party organizational strength in the growth of the Republican Party.
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