Why Did National Politics in the Late 19th Century Accomplish

Why did national politics in the late 19th century accomplish so little of substance?

A) At the time there was no demand for political change on a national level.
B) National politics were preoccupied with the demands of foreign affairs.
C) The main focus of most politicians was to hold onto office rather than risk change.
D) The political differences amongst the many parties in Congress were too big to accomplish anything.