Lawrence says : Gingrich fundamentally changed thinking of Congress . He said the party focused more on fundraising , rather than nation 's business . He sent his caucus home for the rest of the week , in part so that they had time necessary to launch cross-country fundraising missions . Under Gingrich , holding power prevented deliberation on real issues . Lessig says GOP gave up goal of shrinking government to avoid losing donations .
Lawrence says : Gingrich fundamentally changed thinking of Congress . He said the party focused more on fundraising , rather than nation 's business . Under Gingrich , holding power prevented deliberation on real issues . Lessig says GOP gave up goal of shrinking government to avoid losing donations .