What defines a political party?

A political party is defined as an organized group that seeks to gain political power by electing candidates to public office. This definition captures the primary function of a political party, which is to coordinate the efforts of individuals sharing similar political ideologies to organize campaigns, mobilize voters, and ultimately secure electoral victories.

Political parties typically establish a platform outlining their positions on various issues, allowing them to present a unified front to the electorate. In addition to electing candidates, they often play roles in shaping public policy, engaging in political discourse, and representing the interests of their constituents.

Other options, while having some political relevance, do not encapsulate the full essence of what a political party represents. For example, a committee that analyzes political data may provide valuable insights but does not actively engage in the electoral process. Similarly, endorsing a candidate is typically a function of a political party, but by itself, it does not constitute the operational definitions of a party. Conducting surveys lacks the fundamental aspect of candidate election, which is central to a political party's purpose. Thus, the definition provided in the correct answer distinctly captures the core activity of political parties within the political system.