James M. Curry

Shows how the events of January 6, 2021, damaged relationships among our members of Congress, resulting in less bipartisan collaboration and success among those who voted to decertify Electoral College votes in PA or AZ.

Provides evidence that interpersonal relationships among our lawmakers helps promote bipartisan collaboration during policymaking.

Challenges the conventional wisdom that Congress has become a dysfunctional institution where parties do little but engage in zero sum warfare.

Shows how having an older Congress means our lawmakers pay more attention to low-salience issues of importance to seniors, and thus less attention to issues that are important to other citizens.

Argues how the use of multi-member districts to elect state legislators reduces voter participation in several states by creating confusion and fatigue among voters and reducing the likelihood that they complete their ballots.

Demonstrates how the power and influence of party leaders and committee chairs stems from the superior information, knowledge, and expertise they possess compared to rank-and-file lawmakers. Leaders use these advantages to shape the policymaking process and the way their fellow lawmakers view bills and policy proposals, which in turn reinforces partisanship in the chamber and influences the policies made into law.

Argues how the use of multi-member districts to elect state legislators affects how candidates raise campaign funds. In particular, argues that candidates in these districts have a more difficult time raising the funds they need, and as a result are more beholden to particular groups and segments of the population to accrue campaign cash.