POLI239

The class will learn what Congress does and why. The interaction between external actors, e.g. lobbyists and interest groups, and members of their staffs will be examined. Attention will be directed to the nominating, campaigning, and electoral process, particularly the significance of money during campaigns and the subsequent policy cycle. Parties, partisanship, and internal organization of the House and Senate, leadership, media, and constituency service are elements that will be evaluated for their influence on the legislative process.