Congress Wrestling with the Rise of the Administrative State During the 20th Century

American government was quite modest at the beginning of the 20th century. Then tectonic events like the Great Depression, World War II, and the Cold War led to the rise of “big government.” Congress sought to preserve its power over this burgeoning bureaucracy. It created its own management bureau, criminalized agency lobbying, closely monitored presidential management, limited agency PR, and strengthened legislative liaison duties of cabinet departments. These initiatives weren’t always successful.

In the 21st century, conservatives have challenged this “administrative state.” They argue bureaucrats have too much power and want Congress (and the Supreme Court) to re-assert control. This book provides the historical context for this controversy. Whether readers approve or disapprove of the rise of American bureaucracy, this book recounts how things got to this point.

This book relates to political science, American history, and public administration. It is intended for use as a textbook, by researchers, and for academic libraries.