When JFK was president, the Democrats held a big majority in both the House and Senate. But he couldn't get Congress to approve his proposals to enlarge civil rights, supply federal aid for school construction, create a Department of Urban Affairs and Housing, or establish a program of subsidized medical care for the elderly. During JFK's last year, Congress passed 1/4 of his proposals. When Carter had a majority of Democrats, many of his most important proposals were defeated or greatly modified.
These are the steps in the law-making process. A bill may begin in either the House or the Senate except for money bills, which must be introduced in the House. 1. Bill is Drafted: Members of Congress, the Executive Branch, and even outside groups can draft (write or draw up) bills.
