This document discusses political parties in Indiana. It outlines the primary and convention processes for selecting candidates at the state and federal levels. It also describes the structure of political parties from the national level down to the local precinct level. Additionally, it examines the strengths and weaknesses of the two major parties, as well as third party challenges. Finally, it notes opportunities and challenges facing both Republicans and Democrats given current political conditions.

1. Political Parties 9-25-2006

5. Structure of Parties State Chair National Chair County Chair Township Chair Precinct Committeemen Ward Chair

6. Party Leadership Republican National Chair Ken Mehlman Democrat National Chair Howard Dean

7. Indiana Party Leadership Republican State Chairman Murray Clark Democrat Chair Dan Parker

12. Where are parties the strongest? 2004 Presidential Historical ‘Swing’ Voters