The Congressional Black Caucus: An historical analysis of the relationship between political access and legislative success
Abstract
This study provides an historical analysis of the legislative activity of the Congressional Black Caucus from the 92nd through the 102nd Congresses (1971-1992). The major variables considered are political access and legislative success. Access is studied in terms of the levels at which it is achieved through the committee system. It was hypothesized that as the members of the Black Caucus gained status (access) in the committee system, the CBC would achieve higher levels of success with policy goals. Over time, the CBC increased committee activity and through seniority, members gained chairmanships. However, the highest level of success in the policy area exists at the agenda setting stage. The Black Caucus showed itself skillful at keeping issues of importance at the forefront of the House agenda. Also considered were the role orientations of the Congressional Black Caucus. It is argued that much of the activity and the strategies employed by the Caucus resemble those of interest groups and whip type organizations. Findings suggest that the CBC is most successful when it combines its interest group, whip type organization and legislative attributes. This study indicates that the translation of political access into legislative success is a continuous process that constantly challenges the members of the CBC. The research project also establishes the framework for subsequent study of Black Caucus member perceptions of legislative success.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Shaffer, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Political science|Black history
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