1. Gilded Age politics was dominated by the two-party system, with Democrats and Republicans appealing to distinct voting blocs. 2. The federal government practiced a laissez-faire approach with minimal intervention in the economy or social issues. 3. Reformers emerged who sought to reduce political corruption and patronage, leading to some civil service reforms under President Arthur in response to the Mugwump movement. However, the major parties remained the key political forces.