S. John Watson of Portland, Maine asks:

A divided Congress seems only to draw attention to the political rhetoric of each party rather than offer opportunities for immediate change. Won’t the real control over the political agenda come in the Cabinet, judicial and administrative appointments in the Bush camp?

Sonia Jarvis responds:

I agree with you that the consequences of a closely divided Congress will be demonstrated in the fights that may be expected over various appointments in the Cabinet, judiciary and the administration. The nomination of John Ashcroft to be Attorney General has generated significant controversy even though both sides expect him to be confirmed. Because of the intensity of this nomination and that of Gale Norton to be the Secretary of the Interior, it may be difficult for President Bush to enjoy any 'honeymoon' with respect to other nominations that may be considered controversial by the Democrats.

Theodore Lowi responds:

It has been true during the past 50 years that the policy agenda comes primarily from the White House, but there are great exceptions to this rule, especially when the opposition party in Congress has its own agenda and the discipline to sustain it. We saw this in 1995 under the disciplinary leadership of Newt Gingrich. Though President Clinton appeared to seize the initiative back again, most of the key legislation adopted in 1996 and beyond was essentially Republican. That makes Clinton the last Republican president of the 20th century. Agenda, power, and control are what you make of it, and a well-disciplined party can always seize the initiative if it has the courage and fortitude.

Next question...

1) Is bipartisanship a realistic goal?

2) What will Bush have to do to garner Democrats' support?

3) Is bipartisanship only being discussed because it's currently popular?

4) Won't the real control over the political agenda come with Bush's appointments?

5) Will President Bush face the same political climate as President Clinton?

6) Will the transition in government really change the way the government does business?

The U.S. House of Representatives
The U.S. Senate
The White House