Is Congress Effective?

A set of flashcards discussing key concepts around Congress's effectiveness based on the lecture notes.

What is gridlock in Congress?

The failure to get action on policy proposals and legislation due to a complex legislative process and partisan disagreements.

What is a divided government?

A situation where one party controls Congress while another party controls the Presidency.

What landmark legislation did Congress pass during the Great Depression?

The New Deal programs, including the Social Security Act and the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Why did Congress pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964?

Due to the Civil Rights Movement and persistent racial inequalities in the United States that compelled Congress to address systemic discrimination.

What were the Budget Control Act of 2011's main objectives?

To establish mechanisms for spending cuts and raise the debt ceiling in response to concerns about rising national debt.

Which act expanded surveillance powers after the 9/11 attacks?

The USA PATRIOT Act.

What did the Affordable Care Act aim to achieve?

To expand access to healthcare, regulate insurance practices, and control healthcare costs.

What led to the government shutdowns in 2013 and 2018-2019?

Partisan divisions over budgetary priorities, resulting in an inability to pass comprehensive budget agreements.

How is the House Rules Committee significant?

It is arguably the most important committee of the House of Representatives, setting the rules for debate on legislation.

What does the term 'party unity vote' refer to?

A situation where a majority of one political party votes one way while the majority of the opposing party votes another way.

How have recent Congresses performed in terms of legislative effectiveness?

They have faced significant gridlock but have managed to pass some major legislation.

What factors contribute to the failure of Congress to address immigration reform?

Deep ideological divides and election-year politics that hinder bipartisan cooperation.