Gerrymandering is a term derived from the name of the Founding Father and 5th U.S. Vice President, Elbridge Gerry. It is the process of drawing legislative districts in ways that benefit one political party or group of candidates over another.

With congressional approval ratings at historic lows, one proposal to improve congressional proceedings and policy outcomes is to impose term limits on congressional service. What are the advantages and disadvantages of term limits? How would term limits change congressional careers?

As of 12:01 a.m. on October 1st, 2025, the federal government is in a shutdown. Shutdowns are rare in other democracies but have become more common (and longer) in the U.S. A shutdown halts many government activities and stops pay for federal workers, creating a sense of disorder for American citizens and businesses.