State and Local Government

Although national politics captures most media and public attention, state and local governments may well have a greater impact on citizens' daily lives. Consequently, this course examines the key institutions and processes that shape politics and policymaking at the state and local levels of government. Specific attention will be paid to how American sub-national governments raise revenues, allocate and manage their resources (zoning laws, regulatory takings), and provide important governmental services (public schools, fire and police protection, parks). Along the way, students will be introduced to and asked to evaluate key concepts and theories relating to the operation of sub-national governments (e.g., federalism, Tiebout sorting, the "homevoter hypothesis").