key term - Obstructionism

Definition

Obstructionism refers to the deliberate and systematic attempt to delay, block, or prevent the progress or implementation of a policy, legislation, or political agenda. It is often used in the context of divided government and partisan polarization, where political parties or factions actively work to undermine or obstruct the efforts of their opponents.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Obstructionism is often used as a political tactic by the minority party or faction to frustrate the agenda of the majority party or faction in power.
2. Obstructionism can take many forms, such as delaying or blocking the confirmation of presidential appointments, refusing to participate in legislative processes, or using procedural tactics to slow down or halt the passage of bills.
3. Divided government and partisan polarization can exacerbate obstructionism, as political parties or factions become more entrenched in their positions and less willing to compromise.
4. Obstructionism can lead to policy gridlock, where important issues and legislation fail to be addressed or resolved due to the inability of the opposing parties to cooperate.
5. The use of obstructionism as a political tactic has been criticized for undermining the democratic process and eroding public trust in government institutions.

Review Questions

• Explain how obstructionism is related to the concept of divided government.
  • Obstructionism is closely tied to the concept of divided government, where the executive and legislative branches are controlled by different political parties. In a divided government, the minority party or faction may resort to obstructionist tactics to delay, block, or prevent the implementation of the majority party's agenda. This can lead to policy gridlock and an inability to address important issues, as the opposing parties become more entrenched in their positions and less willing to compromise.
• Describe the relationship between obstructionism and partisan polarization.
  • Obstructionism is often exacerbated by the increasing ideological and political divide between different political parties or factions, known as partisan polarization. As parties become more polarized, they are less likely to cooperate or compromise, leading to a greater reliance on obstructionist tactics to undermine the efforts of their opponents. This can further entrench the political divisions and make it increasingly difficult to find common ground on important issues, ultimately undermining the democratic process.
• Evaluate the potential consequences of obstructionism in the context of a functioning democracy.
  • Obstructionism, when used as a systematic and deliberate tactic, can have significant consequences for a functioning democracy. It can lead to policy gridlock, where important issues and legislation fail to be addressed or resolved due to the inability of the opposing parties to cooperate. This can erode public trust in government institutions and undermine the legitimacy of the democratic process. Moreover, the use of obstructionism as a political weapon can further exacerbate partisan divisions, making it increasingly difficult for the government to effectively address the needs and concerns of the electorate. In the long run, the overuse of obstructionism can weaken the foundations of a healthy democracy and hinder the ability of the government to serve the best interests of the people.

Related terms

Divided Government:

A political situation where the executive branch and the legislative branch are controlled by different political parties, leading to increased partisan conflict and policy gridlock.

Partisan Polarization:

The increasing ideological and political divide between different political parties or factions, making it difficult to reach compromise or consensus on important issues.

Filibuster:

A parliamentary procedure where a senator or group of senators prolong debate on a bill to delay or prevent a vote from taking place, effectively obstructing the legislative process.