To What Extent Were Limitations to Kennedy's New Frontier Programme Due to Congressional Opposition? Flashcards
Point 1- Congressional Opposition (Evidence)
Kennedy was liberal in agenda, tried to push his priorities.
Man on the moon, Medicare+War on Poverty (led by LJ, started JFK), intro of Civil Rights Bill, federal power to force integration (Southern Unis)
Congress dominated by R. + S.D., opposed federal expenditure + intervention in education+health insurance. Congressmen for rural areas+small cities opposed spending on big cities, southerners rejected measures to assist black ghettos.
Point 1- Congressional Opposition (Analysis)
As a result: Kennedy’s programme faced substantial resistance as Congress became more assertive in challenging his liberal agenda, meaning he was unable to achieve his aims, and instead relied upon executive orders to realise this agenda.
Point 2- His Own Political Failings (Evidence)
Kennedy disliked Congressional bargaining, didn’t utilise Johnson effectively, feared unfavourable comparisons.
Focused on keeping a ‘tight reign’ on government spending. Put social policies second to economic policies. Cut back regulation on domestic energy production, cut tariffs and introduced tax cuts.
Point 2- His Own Political Failings (Analysis)
Therefore, it can be argued that Kennedy himself was responsible for the failure of many aspects of his New Frontier programme due to poor relationships and bargaining skills.
Point 3- Prioritisation of International Issues (Evidence)
US-backed invasion of communist Cuba (April 1961)- 63% of voters- national security was the most important issue.
Spending restraints placed on everything except defence related programmes or those linked to the Cold War.
Point 3- Prioritisation of International Issues (Analysis)
Therefore, the failure of the New Frontier programme was due to limited investment in domestic issues compared to defence and foreign policy, and these became a more urgent priority for Kennedy to tackle.
