SUPPORTERS
The Center for Public Service provides individuals and public sector and non-profit organizations access to the intellectual resources and practical experience of the Hatfield School of Government in order to improve governance, civic capacity and public management locally, regionally, nationally and around the globe.
AFFILIATED SHOWS
Two Ring Circus
Applied Political Philosophy
In recent years, Congressional approval ratings and legislative output have been at historic lows, yet the incumbent re-election rate has remained at its typically high level. What factors contribute to these outcomes and explain these apparent disparities? Why does Congress seem to be so dysfunctional? How can Congress continue to do "business as usual" in the face of widespread dissatisfaction?
This show tackles these questions by examining the structure, organization, powers, and operations of Congress, the Congressional election system, and the legislative and budget processes, with particular emphasis on the dynamics of Congressional politicking, the obstacles to passing legislation, the persistence of protracted budget battles, and the rise in performative politics as part of Congressional practice.
Frustration with American politics at all levels is widespread and seems to be growing, but what political reforms, if any, would fix the institutions and process of the U.S. system of government to the satisfaction of the American public? What reforms, whether popular or not, might improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness of American democracy?
This show confronts these questions by exploring ideas for political reform, the thorny challenges of intractable-seeming political realities, and the realm of political possibilities. It’s a show about opportunities for change and improvement and the obstacles to achieving them.