Strengthening Congress

With the benefit of an insider's perspective, distinguished formercongressman Lee H. Hamilton argues that America needs a stronger Congress and a moreengaged citizenry in order to ensure responsive and effective democracy. Hamiltonexplains how Congress has drifted away from the role envisioned for it in theConstitution as a body whose power and influence would be preeminen

With the benefit of an insider's perspective, distinguished formercongressman Lee H. Hamilton argues that America needs a stronger Congress and a moreengaged citizenry in order to ensure responsive and effective democracy. Hamiltonexplains how Congress has drifted away from the role envisioned for it in theConstitution as a body whose power and influence would be preeminent in the Americansystem of government. He details the steps that Congress should take to re-establishits parity with the executive branch and become an institution that works reliablyand effectively for the betterment of the nation -- reinforce congressionaloversight, restore the deliberative process, curb the influence of lobbyists, andreduce excessive partisanship. Concurrently, Hamilton calls upon Americans to takemore seriously their obligations and responsibilities as citizens and engage withthe critical issues facing their communities and the nation.