Governing States and Localities (8th Edition)

Specifications

Book Description

**”Governing States and Localities” (Eighth Edition)** by Kevin B. Smith and Alan H. Greenblatt is a comprehensive textbook that explores the intricacies of state and local government in the United States. This edition offers updated content reflecting recent developments in politics, policy, and governance at the state and local levels.

### **Key Features and Content Overview:**

#### **1. Understanding State and Local Government**
– **Introduction to State and Local Government:** The book begins with an overview of the significance of state and local governments in the U.S. federal system. It discusses how these governments function within the larger political structure and their roles in implementing and innovating policies.
– **Historical Context:** Provides a historical perspective on the evolution of state and local governments, detailing how they have adapted to changing political, economic, and social conditions over time.

#### **2. Federalism and Intergovernmental Relations**
– **Federalism in the U.S.:** Explores the concept of federalism and its application in the United States, emphasizing the division of powers and responsibilities between the national and state governments. The authors explain how this division shapes policy outcomes and governance at different levels.
– **Intergovernmental Relations:** Discusses the interactions between federal, state, and local governments, including collaboration, conflict, and competition. This section also covers topics such as mandates, grants, and the impact of federal regulations on state and local policies.

#### **3. State and Local Political Institutions**
– **State Legislatures and Governors:** Examines the structure and function of state legislatures and the role of governors in state governance. The book highlights differences in legislative organization, processes, and power dynamics across states.
– **Local Government Structures:** Provides an overview of various forms of local government, including counties, municipalities, townships, and special districts. The authors discuss how these entities are organized and the powers they hold.

#### **4. Political Participation and Representation**
– **Elections and Voting:** Covers state and local elections, voting behavior, and electoral systems. This section discusses voter turnout, the role of political parties, and the impact of electoral rules on state and local politics.
– **Representation and Accountability:** Explores the concept of representation at the state and local levels, focusing on the relationship between elected officials and their constituents. The book also discusses accountability mechanisms, including term limits, recalls, and referendums.

#### **5. Policy Making and Public Policy**
– **Policy-Making Process:** Describes the policy-making process at the state and local levels, including agenda-setting, policy formulation, adoption, implementation, and evaluation. The authors emphasize the role of governors, legislatures, bureaucracies, and interest groups in shaping policy.
– **Public Policy Areas:** Provides in-depth coverage of key public policy areas such as education, healthcare, welfare, transportation, and public safety. The book discusses state and local governments' challenges and opportunities in addressing these issues.

#### **6. Fiscal Policy and Budgeting**
– **State and Local Finances:** Explores the financial management of state and local governments, including revenue sources, taxation, and budgeting processes. The authors discuss the impact of economic conditions on government finances and the strategies used to address fiscal challenges.
– **Budgeting and Financial Management:** Examines the budgeting process, fiscal federalism, and the constraints state and local governments face in balancing budgets. The book also discusses the implications of fiscal policy choices on public services and economic development.

#### **7. Urban Politics and Governance**
– **Urbanization and Its Impact:** Discusses the challenges and opportunities of urbanization for state and local governments. This section covers issues such as urban sprawl, economic development, housing, and transportation.
– **Governance in Urban Areas:** Examines the governance structures in urban areas, including the roles of mayors, city councils, and metropolitan planning organizations. The authors explore how urban governance addresses issues like inequality, public safety, and environmental sustainability.

#### **8. Policy Innovation and Diffusion**
– **Innovative Policy Solutions:** Highlights examples of innovative policy solutions implemented by state and local governments. The book discusses how these innovations can serve as models for other jurisdictions and contribute to policy diffusion across the states.
– **Policy Diffusion:** Explores the concept of policy diffusion, where states and localities learn from each other’s experiences and adopt similar policies. The authors discuss factors that facilitate or hinder the spread of policy innovations.

#### **9. Contemporary Issues in State and Local Governance**
– **Current Trends and Challenges:** Addresses contemporary issues facing state and local governments, such as immigration, climate change, healthcare, and criminal justice reform. The authors discuss how these issues shape policy debates and governance practices.
– **Future Directions:** Speculates on the future of state and local governance in the United States, considering potential changes in political dynamics, demographic trends, and technological advancements.

#### **10. Tools and Resources for Students and Instructors**
– **Case Studies and Examples:** The textbook includes case studies and real-world examples that illustrate key concepts and provide practical insights into state and local governance. These examples help students understand the complexities and nuances of political processes and policy-making.
– **Learning Aids:** Each chapter includes learning objectives, key terms, review questions, and discussion topics to reinforce understanding and facilitate classroom discussion. The book also offers online resources for both students and instructors, including quizzes, flashcards, and supplemental readings.

**”Governing States and Localities” (Eighth Edition)** by Kevin B. Smith and Alan H. Greenblatt is an essential resource for students of political science, public administration, and related fields. With its comprehensive coverage, accessible writing style, and focus on real-world applications, this textbook provides a thorough understanding of the functioning, challenges, and significance of state and local governments in the United States.