In general, Republicans tend to take a more conservative stand on issues. They believe that the federal government should not play a big role in people's lives. Most Republicans favor lower taxes and less government spending on social programs. They believe in less government intervention in business and the economy. Not everyone agrees with everything his or her party stands for.
Most voters choose a party that most closely represents their values, concerns, and ideals.
Other Voices in the Electoral Crowd Over the last 40 years, Americans have seldom granted their Presidents much freedom to enact their proposals. Since 1987, for example, Republican Presidents have been in the White House, while Democrats have controlled both houses of Congress. The result is what we call a divided government. Some experts say that this situation can spark trouble. Each party blames the other when things go wrong.