This is just something I've been kicking around in my head. I don't have it fleshed out all of the way yet, but though I could bounce it off ya'all. I'm working on the premise that Congress actually has more impact on us then does the President. Oh yeah, by the way, it's slanted to be somewhat partisan.
Since the year I blessed the world with my birth
, Americas politics have shaped up thusly (no real reason to start with 1952, but it shows 56 years of power):
There have been 30 Congresses (starting with the 82nd United States Congress up to the current one which is the 111th United States Congress).
- A Republican was President for 19 of them.
For the entire period, there were 7399 Democrats in the House vs. 5638 Republicans.
Democrats held the majority in the House 24 times- Republicans only 6.
For the entire period, there were 1600 Democrats in the Senate vs. 1371 Republicans.
Democrats held the majority in the Senate 19 times- Republicans only 11.
As much as we like to point the finger at a President- Congress is the place laws are passed. Granted the President can suggest a bill, but it has to go through Congress.
Laws often have a long-term impact on us. Sometimes we don't suffer from the results for decades.
Congress raises taxes- its one of their jobs- a President doesnt have the authority. Again the President can ask, but Congress is where its passed.
Congress can also veto the President and basically override him if he signs something they dont like or if he refuses to sign something they like.
Its easier for a President when their party has the majority in Congress. Eisenhower enjoyed that for one Congress (83rd). Bush had the edge twice (the 107th and the 109th).
Truman had it for the 82nd. Kennedy, Johnson and Carter had that edge all through their time. Clinton had it during the 103rd Congress.
So, looking back it would appear that the Democrats held the power most of the time. Whos to blame for the health of America?
