How to improve American legislators’ lot
The Economist
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Improving American legislators' effectiveness is crucial for both Congress and democracy. Public trust in lawmakers has plummeted, with 80% of Americans disapproving of Congress's work, down from above 50% just 25 years ago. Only 8% of Americans rate members of Congress highly for honesty and ethics, placing them on par with advertisers and surpassing only lobbyists and car salesmen. This lack of trust is compounded by Congress willingly ceding power to the president and passing fewer laws than at any time since the mid-19th century. When it does act, it often does so to obstruct rather than govern, as seen in recent government shutdowns.
The current state of Congress reflects a broader trend of legislative stagnation. Over the past two decades, lawmakers have increasingly prioritized ideological battles over bipartisan cooperation, leading to minimal legislative output. This gridlock not only undermines democracy but also weakens the checks and balances essential to U.S. governance. The failure to pass meaningful legislation has left critical issues unresolved, from infrastructure to healthcare, while allowing executive power to expand unchecked.
This decline matters deeply to business interests, as a dysfunctional Congress can hinder economic growth and stability. Businesses rely on predictable policies and consistent regulatory environments to operate effectively. When lawmakers fail to address key economic challenges or resort to shutdowns, it creates uncertainty that can harm business operations and investor confidence. Strengthening Congress's ability to govern effectively is not just a political imperative—it’s an economic one, ensuring that businesses have the stable environment they need to thrive.
Verticals
businesseconomics
Originally published on The Economist on 2/19/2026