What is the effect of partisanship on presidential effectiveness?

Increased partisanship can significantly hinder bipartisan cooperation and limit the President's ability to pass legislation. When political parties become more polarized, members of Congress may be less willing to work across the aisle to achieve common goals. This lack of collaboration can lead to gridlock, where important legislation stalls due to disagreements along party lines.

Presidents often rely on bipartisan support to advance their agendas, and when partisanship is high, their ability to negotiate and compromise is diminished. As a result, the effectiveness of a presidency can be severely impacted, as initiatives that may benefit the country struggle to gain traction in a divided legislative environment. This dynamic can lead to fewer legislative accomplishments and a more contentious political climate overall, ultimately affecting the President's leadership and legacy.