Question

question 20 of 20

what is one factor that most likely contributed to political polarization between democrats and republicans during obamas presidency?

a. the september 11 terrorist attacks
b. the supreme courts decision to stop the recount during the 2000 election
c. the passage of the emergency economic stabilization act
d. hillary clintons appointment as secretary of state

Explanation:

Analyze the historical timeline of the options

• Option A (September 11 attacks) occurred in 2001 under George W. Bush.
• Option B (Supreme Court recount decision) occurred in 2000 under Bill Clinton/George W. Bush transition.
• Option C (Emergency Economic Stabilization Act) was passed in October 2008 under George W. Bush, just before Obama took office, and its implementation/bailouts fueled the Tea Party movement and intense partisan polarization during Obama's presidency.
• Option D (Hillary Clinton's appointment) was a bipartisan-friendly move that did not drive major polarization.

Evaluate the primary driver of polarization

• The passage of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act (TARP) in late 2008 led to widespread public anger over government bailouts of financial institutions.
• This backlash directly catalyzed the rise of the conservative Tea Party movement, which heavily polarized congressional politics and opposition to President Obama's subsequent domestic policies.

Answer:

• (A) The September 11 terrorist attacks
• (B) The Supreme Court's decision to stop the recount during the 2000 election
• (C) The passage of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act (Correct answer)
• (D) Hillary Clinton's appointment as secretary of state