In Defense of Partisanship

Prolific political historian Zelizer (Princeton Univ.; Burning Down the House), a CNN political analyst and contributor to NPR’s Here & Now, addresses the current dysfunctional state of American politics in this concise study of (mainly) the U.S. Congress. Drawing on his earlier work, Zelizer traces the decline of civility in American politics and the prevalence of slash-and-burn tactics in Congress. From Woodrow Wilson’s 1885 treatise Congressional Government through influential studies in the 1940s and 1950s, Zelizer lays the groundwork for responsible partisanship. He argues that bold reforms are necessary to reduce polarization and reign in the abnormal legislative practices brought about by Newt Gingrich and the Tea Party and MAGA movements. He also criticizes the aggressive partisan leadership style of Democrats Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid, as well as Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell. He argues for changes in the federal debt ceiling, the Senate filibuster, the appointment confirmation process, and campaign financing so that Congress can resume a more orderly legislative process. He also advocates for a larger House of Representatives, resulting in smaller congressional districts, which would allow for more citizen participation in government.