This book systematically examines the first terms of every president from FDR to Barack Obama and assesses the leadership style and policy agenda of each. Success in bringing about policy change is shown to hinge on the leadership style and skill in managing a variety of institutional and public relationships. The second edition of this timely book adds chapters on George W. Bush and Obama and focuses on the significant domestic policy challenges of their respective times. The authors have reconfigured the analytical framework of the book to take into account the 'dynamic opportunity structure' that emerged during the George W. Bush administration. The Presidency and Domestic Policy provides unique insights into contemporary presidential leadership in a highly partisan age.
Praise for the New Edition:
"this new edition adds George W. Bush's and Barack Obama's presidencies...The authors argue that, given their levels of opportunity, different presidents overachieved while others underachieved...This book is clearly written, easy to understand, and full of interesting anecdotes to help support its arguments. Summing Up: Highly recommended. General readers and undergraduate students."
-CHOICE
"Building on prior editions, Genovese, Belt, and Lammers have produced an insightful, discriminating, and cogent update to the study of presidential leadership in domestic policy that melds theory with the challenges individual presidents have confronted in the modern era. This highly readable account is a 'must' for courses on the presidency and American politics."
-Richard S. Conley, University of Florida
"Genovese, Belt, and Lammers have set a new standard for studies of presidential leadership in domestic policy. Their book gives a close-up view of modern presidents in action, while keeping in mind the larger context in which chief executives operate. Their analysis is thoughtful and judicious, and their case studies are interesting and well-written. This book will be useful to students and scholars alike."
-Ryan J. Barilleaux, Miami University of Ohio
Praise for the First Edition:
"This is an elegant, even magisterial work on the presidency that combines theoretical sophistication with engaging presidential storytelling. Students as well as scholars will appreciate this fine book."
-Robert J. Spitzer, SUNY Cortland
