Introduction to comparative politics - Essay Example

The electoral process is the system used to nominate candidates, creating ballots, and polling the public. The electoral process is the mechanics and body of laws that govern the election. The electoral system is not the same as the electoral process. The electoral system is the "…means by which votes are translated into seats in the process of electing politicians into office" (Farrell 4). The United States has a two-party system, which is non-proportional and tends to provide continuity and stability at the cost of minority representation.

This has tended to minimize any impact that minority opinions have on legislation. Ecuador has a multi-party system that has worked towards a proportional system where all viewpoints and parties are represented based on their ability to get votes. However, this is an oversimplification as Ecuador has made some major changes in their system in recent years and is actually a mixed system. The proportional system of Ecuador has insured minority representation, but has also complicated the legislative process.

In both Ecuador and the United States, the highest elected position in the land is the presidency, but are elected by systems that are considerably different. In the United States, the president is elected by an electoral system where each state is given a number of votes based on their population. In each state it is a winner take all system and the candidate with the most votes gets the electoral votes of that state. This has had the effect of creating two parties, of relatively equal strength, that serve as a representative for ideas and change.

It has virtually eliminated any opportunity of a third party or minority party candidates due to the expense and almost certain defeat. It has also created an electoral system where voting blocs and coalitions are of critical importance. In addition, the winner