Opener

Partisanship

A bias towards one party

Gridlock

A stalemate between two groups; neither can advance towards their goals

Video

What rend over time is happening when it comes to partisanship between Republicans and Democrats?

As time passes, the two parties become more and more split

How is gridlock impacted by the increase in partisanship in Congress?

As the two parties become more and more partisan(?) they’ll be less likely to agree and compromise. Thus leading to more gridlocks

Influences on Congress

Partisanship & Polarization

Partisan: A lack of political cooperation between opposing parties

The 1950s - 70s saw Bipartisan - Party line voting is much more common now

Voting Models

Delegate: Reflecting the will of their constituents (the people who voted for them)

Trustee: They are entrusted to use their best judgment

Politico: Blending of a “Delegate” and “Trustee” process

Redistricting

Redrawing congressional districts based on shifts in population

State legislatures draw congressional districts usually in an attempt to benefit the majority party

Racial Gerrymandering - The intentional drawing of legislative districts based on race