The term political polarization refers to the growing ideological divide between political parties or groups, often resulting in highly contentious and divided political environments. This polarization can manifest in stark differences in policy preferences, social attitudes, and party loyalty, leading to decreased bipartisanship and increased hostility. Political polarization can hinder effective governance, as compromise becomes challenging. It also contributes to the alienation of moderate voters and can exacerbate social tensions, complicating efforts to address critical national issues.