Questions I
1.Members of Congress are welleducated compared to the general population and this is used as an example of their elite nature. Why would having leaders who are more educated be a problem in American politics?
2. Discuss any ten ways to kill a bill.
3. Describe the role of Congressional committees.
4. Would you rather be a Senator or a member of the House? Why?
5. Why is getting re-elected to Congress so easy?
Questions II
1. Discuss the legislative process as a whole. Is it "efficient"? How would one measure this?
2. Reconsider what you have previously learned about "iron triangles" in light of the material in this chapter. How does a Congressional perspective differ from the bureaucratic?
3. The text stated that career politicians start young. Briefly plot you own rise to power. What steps would you take? What resources would you require? How successful would your efforts be?
4. Does Congress demonstrate elitism or pluralism? Why?
5. Does Congress exist to legislate or to block legislation? Support your answer.