GVPT 170 Chapter Notes - Chapter 6: Connecticut Compromise, Mass Media, Advantageous
2 Nov 2016
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Local: more coverage of local representative and events that benefit locally, stories straight from members, columns by members, no opposing view. National: doesn"t mention average member, focus on institution (frequently negative), statements from both parties. Press bias towards simple narrative: congress much more complex w/ multiplicity of actors and complexity of legislative procedures and interests. Leads toward distortion by overemphasizing break downs of cooperation and neglecting importance of successful negotiations. Focus on winners and losers instead of process (substance of legislations and complexity of operations) House and senate- center stage in legislative process. Electoral politics influences everything members of congress do. Rules and organizational structure affect distribution of power and policymaking. Easier to stop action than make it happen. Bicameral system w/ 2 distinct features of each house designed to resolve conflict. H of r, seats allocated by pop and members elected by citizenry. Senate, 2 members from each state chosen by state legislature.
