What is a key feature of the 'Era of Divided Government'?

A key feature of the 'Era of Divided Government' is that opposing parties control different branches of government. This situation occurs when, for example, one political party holds the presidency while the other party has a majority in one or both chambers of Congress. This division can lead to a scenario where legislative agendas are significantly influenced by the need for negotiation and compromise between the parties, often resulting in gridlock or the inability to pass significant legislation.

Divided government is significant because it reflects the pluralistic nature of American politics, where diverse interests and views can lead to contrasting control over different branches. In contrast to a unified government, where one party exercises overall control and can more easily advance its policy agenda, divided government requires greater collaboration and bipartisan efforts. This distinct dynamic also affects the decision-making process and can lead to varying degrees of political stability and policy changes, particularly during election cycles.