Pаrt 1: The Pоwer оf Cоngress: If one looks аt the Constitution, it is cleаr the framers intended Congress to be the most powerful branch of the federal government. Yet Congress struggles to pass major legislation. In an essay, describe the central powers that Congress can use to influence governmental policy. Then discuss why Congress often fails to legislate effectively or efficiently. What are the central causes of “gridlock” and dysfunction? In writing about Congress's difficulties with gridlock and dysfunction, discuss how the partisan polarization, gerrymandered constituencies that Congress represents and its bicameral (two chamber) nature “complicate” the process of making laws, especially given the rules of the US Senate. Last, explain using current events, how the current Congress appears to have surrendered so much of its power to the President and White House. Is it just partisan "support" of the President or does the pressures of legislating lead them to abdicate power long before Trump came around?