Legislative Leviathan

Gary W. Cox and Mathew D. McCubbins present congressional parties as a species of 'legislative cartel'. These cartels seize the rule-making power of the House to make rules governing the structure and process of legislation. This book focuses on various aspects to control the agenda.The second edition of Legislative Leviathan provides an incisive new look at the inner workings of the House of Representatives in the post-World War II era. Re-evaluating the role of parties and committees, Gary W. Cox and Mathew D. McCubbins view parties in the House - especially majority parties - as a species of 'legislative cartel'. These cartels seize the power, theoretically resident in the House, to make rules governing the structure and process of legislation. Most of the cartel's efforts are focused on securing control of the legislative agenda for its members. The first edition of this book had significant influence on the study of American politics and is essential reading for students of Congress, the presidency, and the political party system.