What is the proper Constitutional role of Congress? How does Congress make and remake American public policy? Is Congress up to the challenges ahead?

This concise primer offers students a brief and systematic introduction to Congress and the role it plays in the U.S. political system. Drawing on his experience as a former Congressional staff member, the author explores the different political natures of the House and Senate, examines Congress's interaction with other branches of the Federal government, and looks ahead to the domestic and foreign challenges that are likely to drive the Congressional agenda for decades to come. The book provides revealing insights into the sometimes contradictory Congressional responsibilities of representation and lawmaking, oversight and appropriation, and managing and organizing the government. It includes a case study (on the formation of the Department of Homeland Security) and sheds light on Congress's often complicated procedures. The book also includes boxed features on Congressional action—highlighting such topics as file sharing and student loans—that show students how Congress's work affects their lives. Chapter-ending lists of web resources add to the book's usefulness.

“A basic introduction to the United States Congress written specifically for undergraduate college students. Cushman provides a solid and useful approach to explaining how members of Congress make public policy. …In sum, Cushman has produced a distinctive basic explanation of how Congress works. He is particularly skilled at providing the constitutional, historic, and legal context in which the institution operates.” — Perspectives on Political Science (*)

“Cushman, a long-time student of defense and foreign policy, understands the inner workings of the Congress. Students of the institution are fortunate that he has now translated that knowledge into a lively and readable text.” — The Honorable David Price, U.S. Representative (D-NC), author of The Congressional Experience

“An essential text that clearly reflects Cushman's outstanding professional reputation as an award-winning teacher and highly regarded former Congressional staffer and policy analyst. If you are an instructor looking for the perfect text for undergraduates, this is the book. If you are new to Washington and want to understand the workings of Congress, this is the book. If you live outside 'The Beltway' but now realize just how important Congress is to your future, this is the book.” — Jay Parker, Center for the Study of the Presidency