ABSTRACT
The decentralization of power in the legislative process that protects the public from autocratic rule also works against prompt, constructive action. An axiom in the halls of government is that it is much easier to keep something from happening than it is to make something happen. The systematic and deliberative procedure by which legislation is formally enacted notwithstanding, especially contentious issues—and especially contentious times—often call for extraordinary strategic maneuvers. Riders have historically served legislators well as means to secure funding for their own districts' projects, otherwise known as pork barrel projects. Two enacted riders illustrate how substantively unrelated riders can be from the bills to which they are attached and how they can advance on the merits of their "carriers." The design of the legislative process is intended to be fair and open to all, so that the policies it enacts reflect broad public consensus.
