The Effects of Congressional Polarization on Government Relations
Location
Guzman 114, Dominican University of California
Start Date
4-20-2017 4:40 PM
End Date
4-20-2017 4:55 PM
Student Type
Undergraduate
Faculty Mentor(s)
Christian Dean, Ph.D.
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Congress is currently characterized by many as being ineffective and unproductive. This characterization is in part because of heightened partisan polarization. This polarization has caused bills to go years without being considered because members of Congress are unwilling to cross the aisle and work in a bipartisan manner. Lobbying plays a large role in the policy process. The importance of lobbying can be seen in the growth of the government relations industry. Given the increase in partisan polarization have government relations firms been forced to change how they operate? This study examines the way government relation firms have adapted to the increase in polarization. What strategies are used by government relations firms to influence policy making in today's polarized environment? Do lobbyists use different strategies as a result of the increase in partisan polarization? An examination of how lobbying has changed because of the increase in polarization will be examined through interviews with government relations professionals to determine whether or not changes in the behavior of members of Congress has altered the way the lobbying industry approaches its job.
The Effects of Congressional Polarization on Government Relations
Guzman 114, Dominican University of California
Congress is currently characterized by many as being ineffective and unproductive. This characterization is in part because of heightened partisan polarization. This polarization has caused bills to go years without being considered because members of Congress are unwilling to cross the aisle and work in a bipartisan manner. Lobbying plays a large role in the policy process. The importance of lobbying can be seen in the growth of the government relations industry. Given the increase in partisan polarization have government relations firms been forced to change how they operate? This study examines the way government relation firms have adapted to the increase in polarization. What strategies are used by government relations firms to influence policy making in today's polarized environment? Do lobbyists use different strategies as a result of the increase in partisan polarization? An examination of how lobbying has changed because of the increase in polarization will be examined through interviews with government relations professionals to determine whether or not changes in the behavior of members of Congress has altered the way the lobbying industry approaches its job.