Power politics within democratically elected parties in the United States and India showcases two distinct political landscapes, though both involve competition, internal factions, and influence maneuvering to achieve leadership dominance. Let’s dive into how these dynamics typically play out in each country.

1. United States

In the U.S., the two main political parties, the Democratic and Republican Parties, are structured with a mix of formal and informal power. Key aspects include:

Factions and Ideologies: Within each party, there are factions that often align with specific ideologies. For example, within the Democratic Party, progressives and moderates have ongoing tensions regarding policy directions, like healthcare reform and environmental policies. In the Republican Party, traditional conservatives, libertarians, and populists often differ, especially on issues like trade and immigration.

Leadership Battles: Presidential primaries showcase power struggles within parties, with various candidates vying to set the agenda and direction. Power brokers (like former presidents, high-ranking senators, and key donors) hold sway, especially in terms of endorsements and funding, impacting a candidate’s chance of nomination.

External Influences: PACs (Political Action Committees), think tanks, and major donors, like corporate or wealthy individuals, influence party dynamics. For instance, candidates with strong financial backing or media presence can amplify their influence.

Party Loyalty vs. Individual Identity: U.S. politicians often balance party loyalty with personal brand-building. Leaders like Bernie Sanders or Donald Trump, who initially had atypical support bases, managed to wield significant influence by resonating with voters outside traditional party structures.


2. India

In India, power politics within democratically elected parties differs due to multi-party competition, a...