A political party is a group of people of similar political beliefs that seek to influence or control governmental policy by electing and seating candidates for elective office.
History and specifics[]
In the United States of America on Earth, during the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries the two main political parties were the Democratic Party and the Republican Party. (Historical accounts)
This arrangement led to a contentious situation that resulted in the Second American Civil War, which itself led to a continuation of the Eugenics Wars and World War III. (SNW episode: "Strange New Worlds")
Following the Third World War and first contact with the Vulcans, political parties fell out of favor on Earth and soon disappeared, an attitude that remained in place through the founding of the United Federation of Planets in 2161. (ENT - Rise of the Federation novel: A Choice of Futures)