ABSTRACT
In 1963, Emmet Hughes wrote that "there may have been no aspect of Dwight D. Eisenhower's Presidency misunderstood so widely" as his relationship with Congress. Although Eisenhower relied heavily on the Cabinet and on his White House legislative liaison staff to foster a good working relationship with the members of Congress, his personal involvement in legislative affairs was extensive and profound. From the very start, Eisenhower pursued good relations with the legislature. Despite his private misgivings about some members of Congress, Eisenhower continually sought to promote a leadership based on moderation and cooperation. One of the most impressive aspects of Eisenhower's legacy in the realm of domestic policy rests with his commitment to utilize members of the Cabinet as partners in the development and implementation of policy initiatives. Eisenhower provided energetic and forceful leadership in rallying the departments in pursuit of his most cherished political goals, such as balancing the budget and sustaining the vitality of the mutual security program.
