Congressional Decisions: Crash Course Government and Politics

The video explores the factors influencing congressional decision-making, focusing on the roles of constituents, interest groups, and political parties. Constituents impact decisions through voting and casework, while interest groups provide information and campaign contributions. Political parties exert influence through leadership and party unity. The video concludes by emphasizing the complexity of these interactions and the importance of understanding them without cynicism.

What is one of the main reasons congressmen pay attention to their constituents?

• To avoid media scrutiny

• To ensure they have a good public image

• To secure votes during elections

• To maintain a healthy work-life balance

How do interest groups primarily influence congressmen?

• By organizing public protests

• By controlling media narratives

• By offering valuable information

• By providing financial incentives

At which stage are interest groups most influential in the legislative process?

• At the public announcement

• During presidential approval

• At the committee stage

• During floor votes

What is the role of party whips in Congress?

• To enforce party discipline

• To manage media relations

• To organize social events

• To draft new legislation

What happens when the president's party is the majority in Congress?

• The president has less influence

• Congress opposes the president's agenda

• The president cannot set the policy agenda

• Congress follows the president's lead

What is 'log rolling' in the context of Congress?

• A form of political negotiation

• A method of delaying legislation

• A strategy for media engagement

• A technique for public polling

What is a key takeaway about congressional decision-making?

• It involves a complex interaction of factors

• It is entirely predictable

• It is influenced by a single factor

• It is solely based on public opinion