b) Republicans supporting civil service reform

During the Gilded Age, the term “Mugwumps” referred to a group within the Republican Party who were known for their support of civil service reform. This reformist faction, disillusioned with the prevalent political corruption, advocated for merit-based government appointments and an end to the spoils system. The Mugwumps played a significant role in the passage of the Pendleton Civil Service Reform Act and were instrumental in promoting ethical governance and reducing patronage in politics.