One might argue that the two-party system of Republicans and Democrats is grossly inefficient; that it is too polarizing and difficult to relate to one party or the other. No doubt these are setbacks to our system; however, I ask you what would be better? Our two-party system is the closest to a perfect representation that humans will ever achieve.
That is not saying it is perfect, mind you. It is merely stating that it is simply the most effective process.
Many claim that a multi-party system would better represent the people. This is terribly inaccurate for several reasons. One such reason is that policy making will attain a new level of gridlock. If you think that the current polarity in our political system is atrocious now, imagine several more parties trying to push their agendas in the political realm. Even less would get done than gets done now, and that is certainly saying something. Evidence of this is seen in the ineffectiveness of many European governments, where multi-party systems are established.
A second fallacy is the notion that a multi-party system would better represent the people in the election process. Consider how we currently elect our policy makers. In order to achieve an office, a candidate must earn a majority of the people’s vote so that he or she may hopefully better represent the interests of their constituents.
Imagine a situation that may occur if a multi-party system is in place where a senator or representative is elected by 25 percent of the state’s voting population. This could occur due to the other candidates, representing other parties, receiving less than 25 percent of the vote. In this way, the elected senator or representative would only be truly representing the interests of 25 percent of the state’s population.
There would be similar complications for presidential elections. One must recognize that this is not an effective way to best represent the people.
I argue that the two-party system promotes personal responsibility and critical decision making. A two-party system encourages responsibility of the people, making voters stand by their choices in how they vote instead of having a single party suit every view that one may have.
I encourage all to step up and vote for the party that best represents your views because it truly is the most efficient way. Is our two-party system perfect? It is not. There are a few blemishes that can be noted, but ultimately, it gets the job done most efficiently. We can take heart in that and champion our two-party system instead of being disdainful of it.
