Why Local Politics Still Matters

Manhattan Insights

The notion that "all politics is local" appears to be less true as the years pass. But despite the increasing focus on national issues among Americans, local leaders continue to wield significant influence when it comes to matters like education, finances, and law enforcement. Additionally, these officials remain open to guidance from interest groups.

Sarah Anzia is an associate professor of public policy and political science at the University of California, Berkeley. Her research delves into the intricacies of state and local governments, and she is also the author of the enlightening work titled "Local Interests: Politics, Policy, and Interest Groups in U.S. City Governments." She joins Reihan Salam to shed light on the dynamics that could shape the functioning of your own community.

Related reading:

Local Interests, by Sarah Anzia (University of Chicago Press) https://press.uchicago.edu/ucp/books/book/chicago/L/bo151021813.html

Stranglehold: Public unions’ power over California municipalities has created a governing crisis, City Journal online https://www.city-journal.org/article/stranglehold