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Is Congress Up to the Task Before It?
The dramatic and far-reaching proposals that President Obama is sending to Capitol Hill call on Congress to set aside its less attractive habits of the last decade. Former Congressman Lee Hamilton wonders, "Is Congress Up to the Task Before It?"
What It Means to Be a Representative
One of the hardest jobs of an elected representative is learning how to represent a diverse constituency. Former Congressman Lee Hamilton explains "What It Means To Be A Representative."
In Congress, Change Is a Constant
Congress may not seem to change much from year to year, but in fact it is an evolving institution, and not always for the better, says former Congressman Lee Hamilton.
The Political Skill We Need Most
Ordinary Americans want quick action from Washington these days. Yet in these challenging and divided times, former Congressman Lee Hamilton says, the ability to build consensus is the political skill we need most.
Build Consensus Even When It's Hard
The only way to address the tough issues we face as a nation is to do it together, across party lines. Former Congressman Lee Hamilton says that, even though politics these days makes it difficult, we have to "Build Consensus Even When It's Hard."
Whoever Is President, an Administration Needs Oversight
With the White House and Congress soon to be controlled by the same party, there's a chance that Congress will be inclined to go easy on the Obama administration. Former Congressman Lee Hamilton says this would be a mistake, and calls for oversight.
Can Congress Cope With the Communications Age?
The communications revolution has presented Congress with an ironic problem: how to ensure that messages to and from constituents get heard. Former Congressman Lee Hamilton wonders, "Can Congress Cope With The Communications Age?"
How Do We Reduce Partisanship?
A lot of people complain these days that Washington has gotten too partisan, but not many know how to address the problem. Former Congressman Lee Hamilton offers his thoughts.
A Successful Congress Depends on Successful Leadership
As a new Congress prepares to convene in January, it faces great pressure to perform well. Former Congressman Lee Hamilton says a handful of people will determine how it does, for "A Successful Congress Depends on Successful Leadership."
A Disastrous Budget Process
The small bits of progress that Congress is making in putting together a budget are taking place against a depressing backdrop. Congress no longer seems to know how to put a budget together, says former Congressman Lee Hamilton.