Wilson's hybrid approach, which injected a progressive element into Democratic policies, had proved to be dissatisfying to much of the nation.

International affairs also became important in the traditionally non-interventionist United States, as voters attempted to determine which party would be best served to keep the nation from entering the Great War.

However, when the 65th Congress convened in April 1917, the Democrats narrowly maintained control of the House, forming an alliance with third-party (Progressive and Socialist) members.

This Congress is the last example to date of a type of coalition holding power in the House, rather than a single party winning a majority of seats.

Jeannette Rankin, a Republican from Montana, became the first woman ever elected to congress.