This volume thoroughly examines the operations and politics of the U.S. Congress. It guides readers to their own assessment of congressional politics and provides them with the basis for future reading and study of the subject.

• Presents the major functions of Congress and how they have evolved

• Discusses proposed solutions to more than a dozen major problems facing Congress and enables readers to judge for themselves whether or not such solutions are likely to work or may have unforeseen consequences

• Synthesizes a comprehensive body of scholarly discussion on Congress, providing readers with a foundation for additional reading and research

• Explains why hyper-partisan politics, also known as ＂tribalism,＂ has developed in Congress and why it leads to a stalemate in lawmaking

• Provides readers with an understanding of the checks and balances system, and why Congress often fails to exercise those powers