Question

Political polarization in Congress seemed to reach a new high-water mark with the 113th Congress. Which of the following are consequences of this polarization?

a) Government shutdown over budget battles.
b) An impasse over the Affordable Care Act.
c) A new record for the single least productive congressional years.
d) Lowest record level of public confidence in Congress.

Answer 1

The 113th Congress exhibited extreme political polarization, leading to a government shutdown, an impasse on the Affordable Care Act, a record low in legislative productivity, and diminished public confidence in Congress.

Step-by-step explanation:

The consequences of political polarization in Congress during the 113th Congress included a variety of negative outcomes. A prominent example of this polarization was the government shutdown that occurred over budget battles, illustrating a stark division between party lines. Moreover, there was an impasse over the Affordable Care Act, which epitomized the deep divides on policy issues. This period also marked one of the single least productive congressional years in terms of legislation passed, reflecting an ineffective legislature. Lastly, these events led to the lowest record level of public confidence in Congress, as constituents became increasingly disenchanted with their representative body's inability to effectively govern and resolve issues.