How effective is congressional oversight?

Key argument 1 - Yes

Veto override has been used on Presidents - Biden and Obama

Key argument 2 - Yes

In times of divided government, the President will be scrutinised more - last two years of Bush administration (2007) - Strength of Dingell’s committee of the Energy and Commerce committee

Key argument 3 - Yes

Committee investigations can have an impact - Benghazi and Jan 6th

Key argument 4 - Yes

Powers of the purse can be effective at ensuring spending is checked

Key argument 5 - Yes

Appointments and impeachments

Key argument 1 - No

Veto override requires a supermajority - very rare (particularly with polarisation)

Key argument 2 - No

United government and crisis - oversight is weak due to shared ideology and not wanted to embarrass the govt - 9/11 - congress was united

Key argument 3 - No

Party unity affects the ways committees run and vote

Key argument 4 - No

Can block spending legislation through direct authority

Key argument 5 - No

Appointments are rarely rejected and impeachments haven’t occurred

Key argument 6 - No

President’s increasing influencing the legislature agenda