The Politics of Signing Ceremonies During the Reagan-Bush Era

• In Event: White House and Congressional Politics

Abstract

The signing of a bill into law provides a unique political opportunity for both presidents and members of Congress. The president’s position in the legislative process and the size of his public stage helps him to shape perceptions of the legislative accomplishment, while members of Congress are often hungry for credit in a fragmented system that can obscure their contributions. We scour the archival record at the Reagan and Bush libraries to uncover the politics involved in the planning and messaging of these ceremonial events. Our analysis pays special attention to the Tax Reform Act of 1986 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Authors

• Kevin Evans, Florida International University

• Bryan W. Marshall, Miami University