Why Do Some People Vote Across Party Lines?

Imagine you love chocolate ice cream but really like vanilla cake too. You don't have to pick just one! In politics, voters often act the same way. Even though most people pick a team, like Republicans or Democrats, many still check candidates on their own merits.

Sometimes a candidate from 'the other side' has a better idea for your family's school budget. Other times, you just dislike the leader of your own team more than the opponent. This is called ticket splitting. You vote for the President from one party and Senator from another because you want the best fit.

It isn't only people who don't care. Sometimes loyal supporters see a flaw in their team's new proposal and say 'no' to protect what they love. They are still part of the family, just being picky at dinner time.