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Argument: Divided government offers better opportunities for dissent

Issue Report: Divided government vs. one-party rule

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“Here’s my dream ticket: Why divided government’s good for America”. Daily News. 2 Nov. 2008 – “A dependence on the people is, no doubt, the primary control on the government; but experience has taught mankind the necessity of auxiliary precautions,” Madison wrote.

Political parties are important expressions of “auxiliary precautions,” especially when the minority has a share of governmental authority with which to wage dissent. For example, if Obama wins the White House, a Republican Senate would at least have advise and consent power on key nominations as well as a say in legislation.

Parliamentary rules are a lesser defense against one-party abuse. If Democrats win the Senate with 60 seats, a real possibility, they would be able to silence GOP voices on virtually any issue.”