Republican Congress, The
Former Secretary of Labor and university professor Robert Reich talks about the abrupt changes that took place when the Republicans gained control of Congress in the 1994 congressional elections. "I had to stop a lot of bad things from happening and...
Political Stalemate: Political Stalemate
For several decades after Congress ceases to battle over Reconstruction there is political equilibrium between Democrats and Republicans. The outcome of presidential elections generally pivots on who can win four states: New York, New Jersey, Connec...
Political Stalemate: Fundamental Differences Between Republicans and Democrats Emerge
Fundamental differences between the Republicans and Democrats begin to surface during the late 19th century, particularly in relation to the economy and the role government should play in regulating it. The Republicans favor the protective tariff an...
Moving to Extremes
Presidential advisor, political analyst and university professor David Gergen explains that both major political parties today are embracing more extreme agendas than they have in the past. As a result, Mr. Gergen notes, more Americans than ever say...
James Baker's Political Roots
Former Secretary of State James A. Baker talks about his political roots, including the fact that he was a Democrat until 1970, when his friend George Bush told him that, to help get his mind off the grief of losing a wife at thirty-eight, he should...
Party Politics: Ideological Differences Between Republicans and Democrats
There are distinct ideological differences between Republicans and Democrats. In recent years the Republicans have become more coherent in their conservatism, whereas Democrats debate about whether or not the party should be more moderate. Democrats...
Franklin D. Roosevelt and Immigration
Professor of history Gary Gerstle talks about the political ascent of Franklin D. Roosevelt at the time of the Great Depression. Professor Gerstle explains that immigrants in New York City were a significant part of Roosevelt's political base. "He a...
Being Secretary of Labor
Former Secretary of Labor and university professor Robert Reich reflects on his service as Secretary of Labor in the Clinton administration. "It was the best job I ever had, it's the best job I ever will have. It was harrowing, it was scary...But it...
Voices of the People: Party Affiliation in Europe and the United States
Europeans tend to have a stronger attachment to their political parties, in part because they are sharply divided along social class or religious lines. Many European countries have labor or social democratic parties specifically aimed at the less a...