What does low party cohesion in the U.S. typically lead to in the legislative process?

Low party cohesion in the U.S. legislative process often leads to increased conflict and debate. When party members do not share common goals or strong allegiance to party leadership, individual legislators may prioritize their constituents' needs or personal beliefs over party directives. This divergence can result in more prolonged discussions, negotiations, and disagreements, as different factions within the party voice their opinions and push for different outcomes. As members engage in more debates rather than following a unified party line, the legislative process can become fragmented and contentious, making it harder to achieve consensus on policies.

This understanding of low party cohesion emphasizes the role of individual perspectives in a diverse political landscape, particularly in a setting like the U.S. Congress, where bipartisanship and agreement often hinge on the strength of party unity.