Each Congress sets their own calendars and recesses. These numbers do not account for pro-forma sessions attendance is not mandatory, no legislative business occurs, and simply keeps Congress from officially adjourning.

By comparison, the so-called “Do Nothing” Congress of 1948 met for 108 out of approximately 260 weekdays, or about 42%. That was a midterm year when members spent more time back in their districts, and when a Republican-controlled Congress was facing off against President Harry Truman.

By comparison, the so-called “Do Nothing” Congress of 1948 met for 108 out of approximately 260 weekdays, or about 42%. That was a midterm year when members spent more time back in their districts, and when a Republican-controlled Congress was facing off against President Harry Truman.

In the end, it is not always about the truth. It is about protecting one’s identity, pride, and sense of belonging.

Ego plays a role too. Admitting you were wrong or misled is difficult, especially after defending a position for a long time. It is easier to deflect or come up with new excuses than to admit a mistake.

There is also a strong sense of team loyalty in modern politics. When someone sees the world as "us versus them," facts from outside their group are often dismissed automatically, no matter how accurate they are.

This creates cognitive dissonance, an uncomfortable mental clash between what they believe and what is actually true. Instead of changing their views, many choose to double down on them.

Religion Pt 5

The Trump administration's 2025 order on anti-Christian bias and support for religious institutions raised concerns about favoring Christianity. Policies like funding faith-based schools and placing Bibles in classrooms challenge the Establishment Clause, sparking legal debates.

Religion Pt 4

The government has restricted religious practices historically. Laws banning polygamy targeted specific groups, and debates persist over policies favoring certain religions. These issues highlight tension between religious freedom and maintaining neutrality in government policies.

Religion Pt 3

The Court has ruled some religious practices unconstitutional. In Engel v. Vitale (1962), it struck down school-led prayer, reinforcing the separation of church and state. These rulings ensure that government institutions do not endorse or impose religious beliefs on citizens.

Religion Pt 2

While religious beliefs are protected, some practices can be restricted if they threaten public order or safety. In Reynolds v. United States (1879), the Supreme Court upheld a ban on polygamy, ruling that religious practices violating general laws are not constitutionally protected.

Petition Pt 5

The Trump admin. has faced criticism for policies affecting petition rights. A 2025 executive order increasing oversight of independent agencies like the FEC raised concerns about political bias and suppression of petitions on electoral issues, testing 1st Amendment protections.

Petition Pt 4

Historically the government has restricted petitioning. The gag rule in the 19th century blocked antislavery petitions in Congress, violating petition rights. Over time, public opposition led to its repeal, reinforcing the importance of protecting citizens' ability to petition freely.

Petition Pt 3

The Court has ruled on petition-related issues. In Buckley v. ACLF (1999), it struck down Colorado laws requiring petition circulators to be registered voters. While the Court rarely deems petitions unconstitutional, it has focused on the fairness of petition rules and their impact.

Petition Pt 2

Petitioning dpes has limits though. The government can regulate time, place, and manner to maintain order. Petitions that incite violence or threaten public safety are not protected. However, regulations cannot unfairly restrict the right to petition based on content or viewpoint.

Assembly Pt 5

The Trump admin. has faced criticism for its handling of protests. Recent arrests of demonstrators protesting USAID cuts have raised concerns about assembly rights. The administration’s stance on demonstrations continues to fuel debates on free expression and government control.

Assembly Pt 4

Historically, the government has restricted press and assembly rights. The Espionage Act of 1917 and McCarthy-era crackdowns suppressed dissent. Protesters have faced arrests or violence, sparking legal battles over the limits of assembly protections and government authority.

Assembly Pt 3

The Supreme Court has ruled on assembly rights. In Cox v. New Hampshire (1941), it upheld permit laws for protests. In Edwards v. South Carolina (1963), it ruled the arrests of peaceful civil rights protesters unconstitutional, reinforcing protections for demonstrations and activism.

Assembly Pt 2

Though protected, assembly has limits. The government can impose time, place, and manner restrictions for public safety, such as requiring permits for large protests. These rules must be neutral, fair, and leave room for other means of expression to remain constitutional.