Since the Second World War, congressional parties have been characterized as declining in strength and influence. Research has generally attributed this decline

No legislature in the world has a greater influence over its nation's public affairs than the US Congress. The Congress's centrality in the US system of governm

Recently plagued by gridlock, huge deficits, and deep policy differences, Congress has often been the target of relentless and bitter criticism. Asking how the

Political parties and democratic politics go hand in hand. Since parties matter, it matters too when elected politicians change party affiliation. This book sho

For over two centuries, political parties have competed in encouraging, organizing, and directing political activity in the United States. This volume compiles