Our national legislature is overwhelmed. With a new presidential administration comes new appointments to confirm and a fresh legislative agenda to consider. But Congress’ time and resources are scarce. Antiquated legislative procedures have created perverse partisan incentives and handicapped Congress’ ability to perform its basic functions. What challenges does the First Branch face in the months ahead, and how can Congress overcome its institutional shortcomings?

Kevin Kosar, a resident scholar at AEI and editor of the recent volume Congress Overwhelmed: The Decline in Congressional Capacity and Prospects for Reform, talks with Adam about Congress’ role in the new government, how it can refortify itself, and ways to expand Congress’ institutional capacity and expertise.