America's State Governments

<p>This timely and important new work takes a critical look at government in the American states and illustrates the disconnect between state government institutions and their constituents. The text illuminates three basic political problems of state governments: weak constitutional and institutional foundations; a lack of civic engagement; and long histories of unchecked public corruption. In addition, the book explains why some states did and others did not respond promptly to the COVID-19 pandemic and examines America's long-standing problem of police and prosecutorial misconduct–providing a context for understanding the demonstrations and protests that rocked American cities in the summer of 2020. For students and citizens of state politics, the book concludes with a proposal aimed at civic literacy and action</p> <p>Introduction: Disconnected Democracies </p><p>2 State Constitutions </p><p>3 The States in the Federal System </p><p>4 State Governors </p><p>5 State Legislatures and Representative Government </p><p>6 State Justice Systems </p><p>7 Corruption in State and Municipal Government </p><p>8 Conclusion: What is to be Done? </p>