American Government, Readings and Cases, by Peter Woll (12th ed.)

1. Federalist 53, 56, 57, 58, 62 and 63, James Madison, pages 358-365

The functions of the House and Senate are fundamentally different. The House, popularly elected for a two-year term, stands close to the people and represents popular interests on matters of local concern. Senators, indirectly elected for staggered six-year terms, are more detached, deliberative, and conservative. A primary responsibility of the Senate is to act as a conservative check on the House.

2. Media Power and Congressional Power, Timothy E. Cook, pages 387-394

Television has transformed congressional politics in many ways. Members of Congress often spend as much time with the media as they do on their own legislative work. Media exposure is essential not only to reelection but to a successful Capitol Hill career.

3. Why Americans Hate Congress, Richard Morin and David S. Broder, pages     409-414

Perceived partisan bickering is a major reason for public disillusionment with Congress. The public also feels that career politicians in Washington are out of touch with the people. Continued Congress-bashing by the media and members themselves serves only to buttress public cynicism about Congress.

4. The Special Politics of Campaign Finance, Frank J. Sorauf, pages 430-433

Public distrust of politicians shapes the politics of campaign finance reform. While the public demands change, members of Congress view reform as a threat to their reelection. Only a fundamental shift in the political environment can bring about the reforms the public wants.

5. The Congress (Supplementary Material)

Chief Justice Richard Barajas
Advanced Placement U.S. Government and Politics
Cathedral High School, El Paso, Texas
Last updated:  December 8, 2000