"In addition to the decline in competition, American politics today is characterized by a growing ideological polarization between the two major political parties"

This quote by Thomas E. Mann recommends that the two significant political events in the United States are coming to be significantly separated along ideological lines. This polarization is likely because of a reduction in competition between both parties, as the two sides end up being much more established in their respective positions. This ideological divide has been expanding over the last few years, and has actually been shown in the raising variety of partial votes in Congress and also the growing variety of Americans who identify as either Republican or Democrat. This polarization has had a substantial impact on American national politics, as it has actually made it harder for the two sides to find with each other as well as find common ground on vital concerns. This has caused gridlock and a lack of progression on lots of issues.