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Leaders in the Legislative Branch Case Studies Use Discussion Questions to examine the leadership roles lawmakers have played in public life.
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Lyndon B. Johnson, who served as a U.S. Senator from Texas 1951-1961, was called "ruthless" and never forgot a disloyalty as he pursued both his own legislative and political priorities. He had ample opportunity to do so first as Senate Minority Leader in 1953 and as Majority Leader the following year. In one instance, Johnson convinced older Democratic senators to retire the seniority system, thus allowing the Leader (Johnson) more discretion in handing out coveted committee assignments that coincided with his own interests.
Calvin Coolidge was shy and was not expected to pursue or succeed in politics, a career that required "glad-handing." Despite his reputation as "Silent Cal" he worked hard at campaigning and met with success by going door to door and learning the electorate's concerns first-hand. This tactic even won the Republican candidate victories in highly Democratic Massachusetts's neighborhoods. He served in the Massachusetts State Senate from 1912-1915 and as that state's governor from 1919-1920.
Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez (D-CA), now serving in her fourth term in the House of Representatives, voted against the resolution authorizing the use of United States Armed Forces against Iraq; she also voted against President George W. Bush's budget plan for the war. However, the majority of the House voted "yea" for both resolutions. Sanchez continues to defend her votes and criticize the resolutions for being deficient in ensuring Americans' safety and security.
