New Directions in Congressional Politics

The third edition of New Directions in Congressional Politics offers an accessible overview of the current developments in our understanding of America’s legislative branch.

Through contributions by leading scholars of Congress, the book presents perspectives on Congress as an elected body, as a complex hierarchy of interlocking bureaucratic institutions, and as policy makers in a symbiotic three branch system. The chapters bridge the gap between advanced research and accessible teaching by synthesizing cutting-edge research, placing it in historical and institutional context, and showing why congressional politics remains central to understanding American democracy today.

New Directions in Congressional Politics is ideal for an upper-level undergraduate course on Congress, as well as a valuable supplement for introductory graduate courses on American politics and the legislative process.