Perhaps the most elegant explanation of the dynamic forces in American Political culture.  The Ratchet Effect

I would hope, over time, that people with moderate political views (most Democrats and Republicans) come to the realization that the Ratchet Effect  is the source of their unhappiness with government.

The varied interests that make up the political Right applies as much leverage as possible to society through legislation and other political/legal activity.  The Rachet Effect  predicts that there will be more extreme candidates and legal challenges coming from the Republican party only because a compromise (the crux of politics)  is a ‘win.’

Just like the Democrats, the Republican voters (whomever still bothers to go) get to pick from some ugly choices and get no representation for their vote.

The next step is more difficult regardless of your political affiliation.  What kind of social/political organization breaks the cycle described by the Ratchet Effect?