In a political system featuring entrepreneurial politicians who work to fashion their own images, and in an era of weak parties, commentators commonly dismiss the significance of party platforms.
“Who cares what ‘the party’ says,” the conventional wisdom goes, “candidates will do what they want.”
While there’s some truth in this caricature, history suggests it’s fundamentally faulty. Party platforms often prove to be significant determinants of politicians’ actions, especially over the long term. CONT.
Mark Mellman (Mellman Group), The Hill
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