Why only 2 parties in the USA?

The political system of the United States is strongly characterized by the two-party system, which can be attributed to a variety of factors. Primarily, the electoral system and historical circumstances play a crucial role. The winner-takes-all voting system, used in most states, often favors the major parties and leads to the marginalization of smaller parties. Voters tend to cast their ballots for the parties that have the best chances of winning, creating a vicious cycle: smaller parties receive fewer votes, minimizing their chances of electoral participation.

Another aspect is the historical development, which has been heavily influenced by conflicts and coalitions. The early political history of the USA was dominated by parties like the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists. Over time, the two major parties, the Democrats and the Republicans, have formed and established themselves as the relevant actors in political discourse.

Additionally, the political climate is also influenced by the media and public perception, which often disproportionately highlight the major parties. Smaller parties struggle with a lack of resources and recognition, making access to voter masses and opinion formation more difficult. These structures reinforce the fixation on the two dominant parties and contribute to the restriction of diversity in the political system. The ongoing focus on these two parties ultimately leads to a political landscape that can be perceived as stagnant and lacking nuance, while alternative views often remain underrepresented.