The following graphics show the average ideology of the Republican and Democratic parties in Congress since World War II. In recent years, the Republican party has become far more conservative than the Democratic party has become liberal. The average ideology of the House has likewise become more conservative; this shift began during the 104th Congress.
This data was compiled from Tables 8-9 and 8-10 in Vital Statistics on Congress
Download the Vital Statistics on Congress data set (Excel), and share your analyses with us »
The Brookings Institution is committed to quality, independence, and impact.
We are supported by a diverse array of funders. In line with our values and policies, each Brookings publication represents the sole views of its author(s).