Political realignment refers to a significant and lasting shift in the political landscape, often involving changes in party affiliation, voter behavior, and the issues that dominate political discourse. This process can occur due to various factors, such as economic crises, social movements, or demographic changes, leading to new coalitions and altering the balance of power among political parties. Historically, political realignments have resulted in the emergence of new political parties or the transformation of existing ones. For example, the New Deal Coalition in the 1930s reshaped the Democratic Party by uniting diverse groups, while the rise of the Republican Party in the 1860s marked a significant realignment in response to issues like slavery and states' rights.