Causes of Gridlock

Partisanship from 1960-1968

Democrats controlled congress and Republican nixon created EPA so there was little partisanship

How does support for the environment vary in Public Opinion

varies based on race, gender, education, region, age group Most from young, white, upper-middle class, educated population

Tell me about Interest Group Mobilization over time

Groups formed based on conservation issues (wildlife & forest) 1967 - 1990s: focus on pollution and green peace... the number of environmental groups increased 3x 1980s - now: focus on local/regional issues: this encourages more direct engagement rather than checkbook activism Crash in 2008 decreased involvement significantly

How has Public Opinion Changed over time

In the 60s, most people had no opinion on environment but now has changed In the 90s, there was low salience on environmental issues, meaning people wanted to protect the environment but it just wasn't a top priority This is still an issue, although salience can rise if something extreme is happening Lack of trust of government for both parties--low approval ratings for congress, courts, and president

What are the five causes of Gridlock?

Partisanship Public Opinon Interest Group Mobilization Pervasive Media Changing Nature of Environmental Issues

Tell me about the Changing Nature of Environmental Issues

Point source transitioned to nonpoint source Can't pinpoint polluters now bc there is no single target Today's polluters: farmers and homeowners

Tell me how media effected gridlock

Rise of internet hugely significant, the media is now everywhere (i.e. Greenwire, interest groups instantly reaches population through email, growth of 24/7 news cycle & cable TV) Harder to come together when media so biased Satellite T.V. was a huge thing in the 90s and the Growth of Cable T.V. lead to competition to get stories, which lead to reporters digging into environmental issues for a 24 hour news cycle Cell phones for recording and videos

What caused Partisanship?

There was a gradual increase in the difference of values between the two parties, eventually to the point where they practically never see eye to eye on environmental issues. This is because Republicans began having issues with lack of liberty In addition, the democratic party became more homogeneously liberal over time; moderate party members don't really exist as much anymore