L. Sandy Maisel is a distinguished author and editor in political science, focusing on American political parties, elections, and the electoral process. His work delves into the mechanisms that shape the political landscape, offering profound insights into the workings of electoral campaigns and party politics. Maisel's analyses are characterized by rigorous research and a commitment to improving the electoral system. His academic and publishing contributions have significantly advanced the understanding of political organizations and legislative studies.
Featuring contributions from leading experts, this Handbook serves as a vital resource for understanding American political life in the 21st century. It delves into the dynamics of political parties and interest groups, making it an essential reference for scholars and practitioners in the field of American Politics.
This book covers all elements of parties and the electoral process, including local, state, and national party organizations; American party history and party systems; state and local nominations; state and local elections; presidential nominations; and presidential elections. Separate chapters are devoted to the important subjects of the media in the electoral process and campaign finance. The role of political parties in representative democracy_and their contributions to it_are examined critically. This post-election update includes complete data from 2008 and an updated chapter on campaign finance.
In this work, Maisel provides an insider's view of how the American political system actually works while shining a light on some it its flaws. Illustrations.