Congress A to Z (Hardcover, 4th Revised edition)

First published in 1988, this classic CQ Press volume is thoroughly updated with the dramatic events of recent years. No other volume so clearly and concisely explains the inner workings of the national legislature. Each of the more than 250 entries, arranged in encyclopedic A-to-Z format, helps explain in understandable language how Congress really works. Readers will learn in Congress A to Z, Fourth Edition, of the narrow power division between Republicans and Democrats, the methods members use to advance their agendas, the influence of lobby groups, the key role of committees and strong-willed leaders, and much more. In this new edition, editors highlight the close Republican-Democratic split in Congress, dramatically shown by the unexpected decision of Sen. James Jeffords of Vermont to leave the Republican party that gave Democrats control of the Senate early in President George W. Bush's term. Important additions and revisions in the fourth edition include: The anthrax attacks that closed Senate offices for weeks; A heightened focus on Capitol security in the wake of terrorists attacks; New campaign financing laws that may restrict the impact of money in politics; A continuing focus on ethics that led to a House member being expelled.; Entries range from short definitions to a series of core thematic essays exploring the legislative process, the seniority system, the committee system, the budget process, and other broad areas. Entries provide quick answers to questions as well as in-depth background on how Congress functions. Appendices and tables provide an enormous wealth of historical detail about Congress, its makeup, meetings, and membership. A detailed index and extensive cross-references within articles make Congress A to Z, Fourth Edition, the ideal one-stop resource.