3 concepts
Red States vs. Blue States
The terms "red state" (Republican-voting) and "blue state" (Democratic-voting) were standardized during the 2000 US presidential election.
Party Realignments, Dealignments, and Tipping
Realignment refers to national elections in which there are sharp changes in issues that produce new structures that lasts for decades.
The Rise of Independents
In politics, an Independent or nonpartisan politician is an individual not affiliated to any political party.