The Legislative Process

1 Unit · Graduate

Examines the inner workings of Congress and its place in U.S. government. Discussion of how the federal budget is set and the roles of the president and Congress. Studies differences between the House and Senate. Examination of how committees and the legislative process have changed as well as aspects showing continuity. The course will consider the political environment Congressional candidates operate in, and how they decide to run. Explores the significance of legislative and Congressional redistricting. Discussion of the role of lobbying and the importance of recent Supreme Court decisions on campaign finance, and Congress' oversight role and its interactions with the executive branch.