Evaluate the view that Congress is ineffective at its legislative function Flashcards
(14 cards)
Point 1: What is one example of partisan gridlock preventing effective legislative action?
The 2013 government shutdown over funding the Affordable Care Act
This shutdown exemplified how partisan disagreements can halt legislative progress.
Point 1: What legislative action was blocked by the filibuster after the 2013 Sandy Hook shooting?
Gun control legislation
Senate Republicans used the filibuster to prevent the passage of this bill.
Point 1: What is the For the People Act (Freedom to Vote Act) aimed at achieving?
Expanding voting rights, reforming campaign finance laws, banning partisan gerrymandering, establishing new ethics rules for federal officeholders
Despite its passage in the House, it faced consistent filibuster challenges in the Senate.
Counter-Argument 1: In what way did the Affordable Care Act demonstrate careful legislative consideration?
It passed after extensive debate and numerous amendments to ensure broader support
This included changes that garnered bipartisan backing despite filibuster threats.
Counter-Argument 1: What function does filibustering serve in the legislative process?
Rand Paul’s 2018 filibuster lies in his effort to highlight fiscal responsibility and government spending, aiming to bring attention to these issues and provoke further debate on budgetary matters. By using the filibuster, he sought to ensure that such concerns were addressed, even if it led to a temporary shutdown.
Point 2: What event in 2019 divided Congress along party lines?
The Impeachment of President Trump
This division prevented a meaningful legislative response to issues like healthcare and immigration.
Point 2: What was a notable characteristic of the tax reform bill passed under President Trump in 2017?
It showcased extreme partisanship with provisions added without bipartisan support
Many of these provisions particularly benefited corporations.
Counter-Argument 2: What significant bipartisan bill was passed in 2020?
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act
This act demonstrated that effective collaboration can occur even amid polarization when the stakes are high.
Counter-Argument 2: What is the purpose of the Farm Bill?
To address critical issues affecting both urban and rural constituencies
This ensures that diverse interests are represented, leading to bipartisan support.
Point 3: What are omnibus bills often criticized for?
Prioritizing the interests of powerful lobbying groups
The Omnibus spending bills in 2017 Consolidated Appropriations Act which was criticised for prioritising the interests of powerful lobbying groups.
Point 3: Which special interest group has been accused of influencing legislative outcomes related to gun control?
The National Rifle Association (NRA)
This influence is evident in the failure to pass comprehensive gun control laws after mass shootings.
Point 3: What action did the House take in response to the January 6 Capitol attack?
Passed a bill to establish a bipartisan commission to investigate the events
Senate Republicans filibustered the bill, preventing its creation.
Counter-Argument 3: How did Nancy Pelosi contribute to effective bipartisan support during her tenure?
Worked with Republican leaders to pass key legislation
An example is the COVID-19 relief bill in 2020.
Counter-Argument 3: What significant legislation did Mitch McConnell push through as Senate Majority Leader?
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017
He negotiated trade-offs to gain necessary votes for passage.
