Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A dominant political party refers to a political party that consistently holds power and influence in a particular country or region. It often has a strong presence in the government and can shape policies and decision-making.
Related terms
Opposition Party: An opposition party is a political party that does not hold power but serves as an alternative to the dominant party. It provides checks and balances by offering different perspectives and challenging policies proposed by the dominant party.
One-party System: A one-party system is a type of political system where only one political party is allowed to exist or effectively operate. The dominant party in such systems controls all aspects of governance without significant competition from other parties.
Multi-party System: A multi-party system is a type of political system where multiple parties compete for power and representation. Unlike in a dominant-party system, no single party consistently holds power, leading to more diverse representation and potential coalition governments.