How does divided government affect the normal state of affairs in Washington? There is a zero-sum game as each side profits from the other side's failures. ) It has had no effect since divided government has long been a feature of American politics. Presidents are forced to work harder in their negotiations with Congress. ) Presidents are less likely to rely on their unilateral powers since Congress can easily overturn such actions.

The correct options are: - Presidents are forced to work harder in their negotiations with Congress. - Presidents are less likely to rely on their unilateral powers since Congress can easily overturn such actions. Explanation 1. A divided government occurs when one party controls the presidency while another party controls one or both houses of Congress. This situation can lead to various political dynamics and impacts on governance. 2. The effects of a divided government include increased negotiation efforts by the president, as they must work with opposition parties to pass legislation. Additionally, unilateral actions taken by the president may face challenges from Congress, making it less likely for presidents to rely solely on executive orders. 3. Among the provided options, we need to identify which statements accurately reflect the implications of a divided government in Washington. - **Option 1:** "There is a zero-sum game as each side profits from the other side's failures." - This suggests a competitive dynamic but does not capture the collaborative necessity. - **Option 2:** "It has had no effect since divided government has long been a feature of American politics." - This downplays the significant impact that divided government can have on legislative processes. - **Option 3:** "Presidents are forced to work harder in their negotiations with Congress." - This accurately reflects the reality of needing bipartisan support. - **Option 4:** "Presidents are less likely to rely on their unilateral powers since Congress can easily overturn such actions." - This also holds true, as congressional oversight limits presidential power. ## Conclusion Both Option 3 and Option 4 correctly describe how divided government affects the normal state of affairs in Washington.