Political Issues
The Political Issues Channel discusses hot topics and important political issues such as conventions, scandals and theories.
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When Presidential Approval Ratings Really Matter
Every week (or every day) there seems to be new poll giving new numbers on how many Americans approve of the president's job performance. But what do these numbers really tell us and when should we take them seriously?
How Executive Orders Work
Executive orders are directives handed down from the president without input from the legislative or judiciary branches of government. Presidents often use them when Congress won't approve a favored regulation. But should they?
Can You Ignore a Subpoena?
Ignoring a subpoena can land you in jail. So why would anybody do it?
What Is an Oligarchy and Has the U.S. Become One?
Opinions differ about whether the U.S. has become an oligarchy, a society in which a wealthy elite has most of the power.
What Is a Constitutional Crisis?
We've been hearing the words constitutional crisis tossed around a lot lately. But what is one, really?
How Fascism Works
In fascism, the State is all that matters, and constant conquest is necessary to glorify that State. But how do you convince people to support a philosophy that denies their personal value? Is fascism really still alive today?
What's Next for the Green New Deal?
The U.S. Senate voted to quash the non-binding resolution without ever talking about it. But that doesn't mean it's dead in the water.
Bridging the Chasm: Emory Class Delves Into America's Right-wing History
Emory historian and author Joseph Crespino's course aims to examine the history of right-wing ideology in the U.S. while at the same time teaching his students objectivity and empathy.
Is a Border Wall Really Grounds for a National Emergency?
President Trump has threatened to use emergency powers to build a border wall without Congressional approval.
Quiz: Can a U.S. President Do That?
If you follow politics long enough, there'll be headlines that make you wonder if a U.S. president can really do that thing you just read about. Take our quiz to learn what's within a president's rights.
The Ripple Effect of the U.S. Government Shutdown
When the federal government shuts down, U.S. government employees aren't the only ones affected. There's a pronounced chain of events that happen the longer the fed is closed.
5 Things to Expect if the Government Shuts Down
Congress is at odds over the federal budget, and a deadline is looming. If they can't agree, the government could shut down. We'll tell you what to expect if it does.
Is It OK for Nondisabled People to Use the Big Bathroom Stall?
Among the line of cramped toilet stalls, there's usually a larger one reserved for people with disabilities. But if no one seems to need it, is it OK to borrow it?
Uncle Sam: The Man, the Myth, the Legend
He wants YOU, but who the heck was he?
Posse Comitatus: The 140-Year-Old Law That Affects U.S. Troops at the Border
Is sending federal troops to the U.S.-Mexico border even legal? As it turns out, a U.S. law called the Posse Comitatus Act has something to say about it.
Quiz: What Do You Know About U.S. Midterm Elections?
Halfway through every presidential term, the United States holds its midterm elections. The results can reshape the country's political map. Test your knowledge of midterms with this quiz.
What Does It Really Mean to be a 'Nationalist'?
President Donald Trump proudly declared he is a 'nationalist,' much to the chagrin of many Americans. Still others support his comment. So what exactly does it mean?
How Midterm Elections Work
Midterm elections in the U.S. don't get the public excited the way presidential elections do. But there's a lot at stake, actually, during these contests. Why do midterms exist, anyway?
What Does 'Treason' Actually Mean?
Though treason is the only crime mentioned in the U.S. Constitution, few know what the word actually means and fewer still have ever been indicted for it.
More Women in Government Means Less Corruption
A new and comprehensive study finds corruption is lower in countries that have more women in elected roles.
Why the Father of Modern Journalism Distrusted Democracy
In the age of endless information, are voters too distracted to make informed decisions?
Fight for Equal Rights Amendment Enters a New Era
The ERA just got a big boost from the Illinois House of Representatives. Is now finally the time?
Why Doesn't the First Lady Get Paid?
First ladies have traditionally played significant roles at the White House. But so far that work has been sans pay.
James Comey: A Higher Loyalty or Shameful Disgrace?
Whether you agree with President Donald Trump's firing of former FBI director James Comey or not, Comey's place in history will forever be marred by the scandal. Now he's telling his side of the story.
Conservative Senator Wants to Legalize Hemp
Hemp farmers have an unlikely ally in the senate these days and he wants to see the plant removed from the DEA's controlled substances list.
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