This text explains how and why parties vary from state to state in how they operate and compete. The authors examine, among other topics, differences in political cultures, levels of two-party competition, and the rules and practices that affect party nominations and other aspects of politics. The authors also describe the interaction between state and national party organizations and demonstrate how much state party competition and state elections are affected by national trends. Underlying the work is Jewell and Morehouse's belief that the state political parties are alive and well; that they're adapting to aid today's candidates; and that there is close competition between the parties in an increasing number of states. Campaign finance at the state level is emphasized throughout the book. The authors describe the role of state parties in raising money and distributing it to candidates as well as the increasing importance that money plays in gubernatorial and state legislative elections. Many tables in the book provide cross-state data, enabling students to compare their home states with other states.