Chapter 1 reviews the key events in government and politics that preceded and shaped the 2024 congressional elections, and foreshadows the research that appears in the volume. It examines the drama around the overthrow of Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) and the selection of the new Speaker of the House in 2023, reviews congressional impeachment efforts, the large number of congressional retirements, and attempts by leaders to govern in a highly partisan political environment. The chapter concludes with comments about how the election results will impact upcoming policy debates.