Congress and the Presidency

Catalog description

How have the contemporary Congress and President changed over the past two hundred years? Are these changes consistent with the intent of the Founding Fathers? Do we have an imperial Presidency? Why do Americans consistently approve of their member of Congress yet revile Congress as an institution? This course is designed to explore the historical evolution of the Executive and Legislative branches of government, while simultaneously considering the intention of the Founding Fathers. The nature of this interbranch relationship is evaluated through examination of the political parties, elections and the changing electoral and partisan environments.