Category Archives: American Political Development

Is the GOP Debt Ceiling Proposal Constitutional?

Posted on January 21, 2013 by

Over the weekend, House Republicans unveiled a debt ceiling proposal that’s the subject of some controversy.  Shocking, I know.  The controversy hinges on the fact that, while Republicans tout themselves as defenders of the Constitution, their plan contains a constitutionally … Continue reading →

Posted in American Political Development, Bicameralism, Congressional Absurdity, Legislative Procedure, Political Parties | 3 Comments

The Filibuster: An “Accident of History”? On the Common Cause Lawsuit.

Posted on December 12, 2012 by

A few months back, we at the blog had a semi-regular series: “things institutionalists know that you should” (see for example see Josh on timing, Nate on Plott’s fundamental equation, and myself on the status quo bias of institutions).  This … Continue reading →

Posted in American Political Development, Filibuster, Legislative Politics, Legislative Procedure | 1 Comment

The Polarization Culprits

Posted on October 21, 2012 by

Jennifer Victor and Seth Masket recently posted a couple very good posts over at the  Mischeifs of Faction on polarization in Congress. If you aren’t already reading their blog, you should. Both approach the problem from an electoral perspective. There … Continue reading →

Posted in American Political Development, Legislative Procedure, Polarization, Political Institutions | 2 Comments

Some Thoughts on Americans Elect, Polarization and Gridlock

Posted on April 11, 2012 by

In January I was invited to speak at a roundtable hosted by Americans Elect–a nonpartisan presidential nominating organization.  As you may know, Americans Elect (AE) has garnered quite a bit of attention this election cycle from academics and pundits alike (see here for … Continue reading →

Posted in American Political Development, Elections, Electoral Institutions, Polarization | Tagged , , | 2 Comments

Institutional Advancement: Do Dan Boren’s Claims Add Up?

Posted on March 8, 2012 by

Politico published an insightful article yesterday provocatively titled “Members of Congress:  This Job Sucks.”  Much of the article centers on and interview with Oklahoma Representative Dan Boren (D).  Boren is retiring at the end of this session, so he’s using his unique … Continue reading →

Posted in American Political Development, Legislative Politics, Legislative Procedure, Political Parties | 3 Comments