Noun. splinter party (plural splinter parties) A political party formed by members of an existing one whose views or policies differ from those of the majority.
Third parties tend to be more ideological and extremist than the Democrats or Republicans. ... The Libertarian Party supports laissez-faire policies, small government, and is characterized by being socially liberal and fiscally conservative. The Green Party is a progressive party that emphasizes eco-socialism.
A splinter party is when members of a main political party break away to form their own party usually stressing the importance of one specific issue. ... For example, in the late 1940's, the Democratic Party saw members break away to form a group known as the 'Dixiecrats.'
