Section 9                            

Congress

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Readings: Chapter 13.

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Your Name

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9.1 Which of these strategies (as employed by members of Congress) illustrates "anticipated reactions?"    

"[T]hey constantly assess and adjust their behavior with an eye to its impact on their ability to win another term."

"[T]hey attempt to predict the flow of popular sentiment and opinion to preempt electoral challenges."

"[T]hey anticipate the legislative flow of bills and correspond their activities to maximize their impact on amendments."

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9.2 What is the C.B.O. and why is it important in the balance of power?      

9.3 Classify the following committees as "power" committees, "policy" committees or "constituent" committees.      

Agriculture

Appropriations

Banking

Rules

International Relations

Armed Services

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During the 40 years in which Democrats controlled the House of Representatives, the Senate was often a moderating influence on any liberal legislation arising from the House, even when both contained democratic majorities. It is no less the case today as the republican Senate moderates conservative legislation produced by Republicans in the House. This is in large part due to the differences in rules and norms between the two chambers. House rules and norms emphasize partisanship and getting legislation passed, while the Senate rules and norms emphasize cooperation and deliberation. Zen.

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9.4 Which of these characterizations are closer to the House of Representatives and which are closer to the Senate?      

House   Senate       Stronger Leadership

House   Senate       Less Hierarchical

House   Senate       Limited Debate

House   Senate       Institutional Loyalty

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9.5 We have heard a lot more about Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich than his predecessor Thomas Foley. Part of the reason for this is that Mr. Gingrich has made the Speaker's position much stronger than it had been previously. Briefly list the ways in which he has done this.    

9.6 What is the "defensive advantage" in the legislative process? How does it affect policy making in Congress?    

Questions or Comments? send e-mail to Dr. Werner at drblw@aol.com

  Thought exercise: Members of Congress may adopt several strategies in their role as representative. Trustee and Delegate are two mentioned by the authors. In your opinion, when should members of Congress act as trustees and when should they act as delegates?  What are the consequences for how members of Congress relate to parties, interest groups, the president , congressional leaders and others who seek to influence them?