ABSTRACT
This chapter argues that all of the structural explanations are wrong or, at best, woefully inadequate and that most, if not all, of the political explanations are at least partially right. Republican officials might excuse their party's failure to advance through open seats by mentioning another favorite allegation, namely, that Democratically controlled state governments have drawn House districts that discriminate against Republican candidates. Republican leaders have recently concluded that the campaign finance system is anticompetitive and biased against their own candidates. The average quality of Republican challengers has declined during the period of Republican presidential dominance. Majorities plainly and quite understandably desire some broad collective goods: low tax rates, a balanced budget, low inflation, a less meddlesome government, adequate national defense. A campaign for reelection that promotes themes of affirmation and continuity gives congressional challengers from the president's party little rhetorical ammunition.
