An Introduction to State and Local Politics

Tom Brunell et al.

While often neglected in the study of American government, state and local politics are crucial to understanding the wide range of policies that affect citizens' everyday lives. An Introduction to State and Local Government provides students with the information they need to understand the world around them with a focus on concise explanations of key concepts and applications to real-world problems. Written to be easily understood, student comprehension is supported by carefully structured assessments that allow students to practice critical analysis, focusing on the skills they need to understand and participate in the political world. An Introduction to State and Local Government is regularly updated to include the latest information and trends in state and local politics, including regular updating of supporting materials like test banks and slides. The text is written with a special emphasis on Texas, though it is appropriate for state and local politics classes everywhere.

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Table of Contents for An Introduction to State and Local Politics

  • UTD Specific Front Matter
  • Chapter 1: Socioeconomic and Political Context
  • Chapter 2: State Constitutions
  • Chapter 3: Federalism and the States
  • Chapter 4: Local Governments
  • Chapter 5: State and Local Government Relations
  • Chapter 6: Citizen Participation, Parties, and Elections
  • Chapter 7: Public Opinion, Lobbying, and Interest Groups
  • Chapter 8: The Executive Branch
  • Chapter 9: State Legislatures
  • Chapter 10: The State Judiciary
  • Chapter 11: Taxes and Spending
  • Chapter 12: Criminal Justice Policy
  • Chapter 13: Social Welfare and Healthcare Policy