Squaring Off: Executives and Legislatures in Ecuador

Resumen

Abstract Divided government has been virtually the norm in Ecuador since the demise of the last military regime in 1979, as a result of both historical experience and political institutions, particularly electoral rules. It appears in several forms thanks to these rules, which allow a mixed‐party presidential ticket, the survival of many small parties, and a small assembly. Relations between executive and legislature are best described as ‘muddling through’, with some presidential powers balanced by the legislature's powers of scrutiny and possible impeachment.