What is legislative oversight?

Director of The Levin Center and NewDEAL alumnus Jim Townsend shares insights on the critical role of oversight in government and explains how effective communication and accountability can drive better policy outcomes.

Listen to the full episode:    • How Government Can Get Sh*t Done: Jim Town...  

Townsend dives into the concept of oversight in government with a focus on what works, what doesn’t, and why it matters. He unpacks the complexities of oversight and its essential role in holding elected officials, lawmakers, and government implementers accountable for delivering on the intentions of public policies.

Oversight can be a broad and sometimes confusing term, but at its core, it’s about communication: government entities exchanging information and monitoring the impact of public policies. Our guest explains how oversight ensures that policies are effective; addresses potential problems like fraud, mismanagement, or corruption; and ensures that the public's needs are being met.

Townsend discusses how the executive and legislative branches work together to oversee the implementation of laws, manage appropriated funds, and ensure that legislation is being applied correctly. He also talks about the Supreme Court's role in shaping oversight powers and its importance in the functioning of our government.

Tune in to hear more about how effective oversight can drive positive change and ensure that our political system works for the people.