“Pass this bill” – rebalancing the Administration’s relationship with Congress

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To date, the Obama Administration has largely presented Congress with legislative principles and worked behind the scenes as legislation is developed. There are surely many reasons for the Obama Administration’s approach to Congress.  At the outset of his Administration, Democrats controlled both Houses of Congress.  On health care, the memories of President Clinton’s assertive approach surely played a role. Moreover, the political capital expended to pass the Affordable Care Act clearly created some reluctance to push Congressional Democrats too hard on other issues. But it is hard to argue that the Administration received, much if any, political protection through its greater deference to Congress.

It is too early to judge whether President Obama will consistently repeat his new strategy of proposing specific legislation, and if so, whether it will improve or undermine the relationship between the legislative and executive branches.  Early comity from Republican leadership to the jobs bill has significantly diminished since the White House outlined its ideas for funding the legislation. However, the specificity of the legislation has enabled some Republicans to identify some proposals they support.  While the gear up for the 2012 elections guarantees continued polarization, hard fought disagreements and even harsh words over specific policy ideas are potentially resolvable and far less damaging than condemnations over ideology or character.

During past legislative battles, Republicans have sometimes complained that they don’t know where the President stands. The Administration has also been criticized for not introducing specific legislation following the completion of the Simpson-Bowles Commission. On jobs and debt, the Administration’s position is now very clear. By combining the two principal features of the “bully pulpit” – the big speech and the ability to drive the national legislative debate – it appears that the President has found a more forceful voice.  In addition to shaping the economic debate, the Administration’s decision to propose detailed jobs and debt strategies may signal how the President intends to lead between now and the election.

Grumet is the president of the Bipartisan Policy Center.