For over a decade, U.S. Congress has operated under razor-thin majorities in both chambers, creating significant obstacles for passing legislation. This dynamic has led to increased reliance on continuing resolutions (CRs)—temporary funding measures employed when Congress can’t agree on full appropriations bills.
The trend intensified following the 2025 federal government shutdown and recent partial shutdowns of the Department of Homeland Security. Meanwhile, a modern media environment has further complicated legislative progress, with 24-hour news cycles and social media amplifying ideological conflicts rather than facilitating compromise. Congress members often gain national attention through hardline positions or viral moments on cable news, making bipartisan deal-making less appealing.
Despite these challenges, bipartisan legislation remains common in lower-profile areas. GovTrack data from under two years ago shows 59% of bills voted on were very bipartisan, while only 12.5% received party-line votes. However, high-visibility legislation—including major budget packages and regulatory changes—frequently passes along narrow partisan lines.
The SAVE America Act, which requires voter identification requirements, exemplifies current gridlock. Polls indicate 81% of voters support such measures across political divides, with 95% of Republicans and 69% of Democrats in favor. Congressional Republicans have advanced the bill through the House, but Senate Democrats are blocking it using the filibuster rule—a procedural requirement for a 60-vote majority to proceed.
This stalling means Republicans would need at least seven Democratic votes to move the bill forward, as Senate Democrats refuse to support what they claim represents outdated policies contrary to their constituents’ interests.
