How have partisanship and populism shaped congress? Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is partisanship in the context of the U.S. Congress?
Partisanship refers to the strong allegiance to one political party, often resulting in a lack of cooperation between parties.
True or False: Partisanship has decreased in the U.S. Congress over the last few decades.
False
Fill in the blank: Partisanship can lead to ________ in legislative decision-making.
gridlock
What is populism?
Populism is a political approach that seeks to represent the interests of ordinary people, often contrasting them against a perceived elite.
How has populism influenced the agendas of Congress members?
Populism has pushed Congress members to focus on issues that resonate with the general populace, often prioritizing the needs of their constituents.
Which political party in the U.S. has been more associated with populist rhetoric in recent years?
The Republican Party
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a consequence of increased partisanship in Congress? A) Increased bipartisanship B) Legislative gridlock C) More efficient law-making
B) Legislative gridlock
What role does social media play in partisanship?
Social media amplifies partisan voices and creates echo chambers, reinforcing existing beliefs and divisions.
True or False: Populism often leads to a decrease in political engagement among voters.
False
Fill in the blank: The rise of ________ has contributed to the polarization of congressional debates.
partisan media
What is one of the effects of partisanship on congressional elections?
Partisanship leads to more extreme candidates being elected, as primary voters tend to favor more ideologically aligned candidates.
Short Answer: Name one key issue that has become a focal point for populist movements in the U.S.
Economic inequality
How has partisanship affected the confirmation process for judicial nominees?
Partisanship has led to more contentious and extended confirmation processes, with nominees often facing significant opposition based on party lines.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of populism? A) Anti-elitism B) Emphasis on the common people C) Support for established political institutions
C) Support for established political institutions
What is a primary challenge posed by partisanship to effective governance?
Partisanship can create significant obstacles to compromise, making it difficult to pass legislation that has broad support.
True or False: Populist leaders often advocate for the interests of a specific group rather than the general populace.
False
Fill in the blank: The ________ Act is an example of bipartisan legislation that succeeded despite a partisan environment.
Bipartisan Infrastructure
What impact does partisanship have on public trust in Congress?
Increased partisanship typically leads to lower public trust in Congress, as citizens perceive it as dysfunctional.
Short Answer: How have voter demographics shifted in relation to partisanship?
Voter demographics have increasingly aligned with partisan identities, leading to more homogeneous voting patterns.
