Question

Describe who influences decision making in congress and how?

Answer 1

The party Party leaders are first line in decision-making –60% vote strictly along party lines every time –“right in” vs. “center out” partisanship Tactics used to “persuade” party members to vote a certain way –Members threatened in loss of certain positions in Congress (chairs, committees…) Divided government—when different parties control Congress and the White House –can lead to problems passing agenda (gridlock)