Given that by tonight we are likely to know that the USA is facing divided government–with a Republican House (if not both houses) and Democratic president–a refresher course on what it means is in order.
John Sides reviews some of the literature, and discusses how it applies to Obama. He rightly notes that it would be a mistake to assume, as some pundits do, that it is somehow good for Obama if Democrats do not retain control of both houses of Congress.
Presidents, not Congress, are held accountable for results, pretty much independent of how much support the president had in Congress.
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Sure looks like Congress is being held accountable tonight…
Seed planted by Tom — 03 November 2010 @ 04:41
But I acknowledge and agree with the points made in this post, especially the quantitative research cited. This congress was the same party as the pres, and clearly some anger at the pres is being directed toward congress.
Seed planted by Tom — 03 November 2010 @ 05:10