Congressional Productivity Hits All-Time Low in 2023
In a recent study conducted by renowned researchers, it has been confirmed that the productivity of the United States Congress has sunk to an all-time low in 2023. Analysts are calling it a case of 'perpetual Mondays' for the legislative body.
The data collected reveals that a grand total of only two laws were passed by Congress in the entire year. That's right, just two laws per month. To put it mildly, that's not exactly setting any productivity records. The Republican-led House held a staggering 724 votes, but their success rate was less than stellar, with a batting average of just 0.037.
Twitter Post On Congressional productivity hits historic low, bills passed plummet in 2023
While some necessary tasks, such as funding the government and raising the debt ceiling, were accomplished, the other bills that managed to become law were far from groundbreaking. For instance, there was HB 1096, also known as the COIN Act, which allows the Department of Treasury to mint commemorative coins to celebrate the 250th birthday of the United States and the United States Marine Corps. These include $50,000 gold coins, $5 silver coins, and $750,000 half-dollar coins. A seemingly lighthearted gesture, but hardly the stuff that changes the course of the nation.
Another bill worth highlighting is HB 3672, which renamed a VA clinic in Indian River, Michigan. While uncontroversial and bipartisan, it's hardly the kind of legislation that sparks excitement or ignites progress. It's more akin to filing mundane expense reports at work, or pulling a Peter Gibbons from the movie 'Office Space,' where staring at the desk appears to be productive but accomplishes very little.
Adding to the frustrations of the American people, members of Congress receive a salary of $174,000 per year, which far exceeds the median income of most citizens. It's safe to say that many hardworking Americans would like to have the luxury of doing just 15 minutes of actual work in a week, comparable to the perceived effort of some lawmakers.
Comparing 2023 to previous unproductive years, such as the 118th Congress in 2013, reveals a stark difference. Despite facing similar political divisions, the House managed to pass 45 more bills that year, totaling 72. This showcases the historic incompetence of the 118th Congress in 2023.
Additionally, the year saw its fair share of political jostling, with the House undergoing a Speaker change and multiple failed attempts to oust certain individuals. The Republicans focused on reprimanding Democrats, resulting in three censures against Adam Schiff, Rashida Tlaib, and Jamal Bowman.
While there are Republicans who acknowledge the need for substantial change within their party, others claim that the blame rests squarely on their own shoulders. With little to show for their time in office, many lawmakers struggle to point to any meaningful achievements that they can campaign on.
Ultimately, the lack of productivity in Congress in 2023 has left many Americans feeling frustrated and let down. Despite promises and commitments, the legislative body appears to be stuck in a cycle of unproductiveness and partisan bickering. As taxpayers witness this unrivaled futility, the demand for a more effective and efficient Congress continues to grow.
