What Does GOP Stand for in Government?

GOP stands for “Grand Old Party” and refers to the Republican Party of the United States of America. GOP originally stood for “Gallant Old Party,” a term first recorded in 1875. The acronym “GOP” was first recorded in 1884.

The Republican party is one of two major political parties in the United States, the other being the Democratic Party. The Republican party was founded in 1854. As of 2012, the Republican party states in its party platform that it is focused on, among other things, smaller government, lower taxes and less government spending. Former Republican presidents of the United States include George W. Bush, George H.W. Bush and Ronald W. Reagan.