POLT 280 - U.S. Congressional Politics and Legislative Strategies

FC SSCI

4 credits
This course is intended to provide a broad understanding of the inner workings of the U.S. Congress and its larger position within the American political system. We begin by looking at the founding and origins of the modern Congress. We then examine the impact of political parties, congressional organization and rules, and electoral incentives on legislative actions and the policymaking process. Next, we consider the relationship between Congress and other institutional actors (Executive and Judicial Branches, Interest Groups). We conclude by evaluating the current functioning of Congress and the state of congressional representation.