Essays and Research Papers on State & Local Politics

A 6 page discussion of the governmental oversight which is required to insure our safety in times of natural or man-made disaster. The author contend that all levels of government are involved in this oversight. This interaction occurs at all levels, from insuring an adequate infrastructure to dealing with such disasters to physically ...

Texas and California – Comparing State Governments: This 8-page comparative essay examines the state governments of Texas and California relevant to their political culture, branches of government and noteworthy, disparate issues. It should come as no surprise that different states in the U.S. have divergent socio-political systems. Yet often, they are unexpectedly similar. Bibliography ...

This 5 page paper considers the way the increased commercial pressures have changed the culture in local government, The paper looks at local housing benefit offices in the UK, however, the theories and lessons may be seen as broad ranging and applicable to changing culture ois many public sector departments. The bibliography cites 6 sources. ...

A 10 page review of Native American gaming and the revenues it provides to local government. The author contrasts Native American gaming with non-Native gaming establishments and emphasizes the role of tribal sovereignty and tax exemption in determining revenue contributions. Bibliography lists 10 sources.

6 pages. This paper evaluates the city of Miami, Florida and its city government. Describes what type of city Miami is, and how it has been affected by demographic changes such as urbanization, suburbanization, deconcentration and regional shifts. Topics also include the type of city government that Miami has, as well as the type of elections. The mayoral ...

An 8 page paper that provides an overview of the elements that have impacted a shift in minority activity in local and state government represented in Gainesville, and demonstrates this same change in much of the state of Florida. Bibliography lists 7 sources.

4 pages in length. The writer discusses the Oregon Death With Dignity Act as it relates to 1997 Supreme Court allowing each state to decide for itself. Statistical data also provided. Bibliography lists 4 sources.

This 6 page paper examines the concepts of reformed and unreformed city governments and compares the two types. Pros and cons of each type are explored. Bibliography lists 4 sources.

Approximately 6 pages describing the role and function of the New Jersey government's executive branch. Excellent for those studying government & politics as well as related topics. Bibliography lists 4+ sources.

This 5 page paper considers the differences and similarities in two of the worlds best known democracies, the United Kingdom and the United States. The advantages of both electoral administrative system are considered and evaluated for strengths and weaknesses with a conclusion which balances these factors to decide which is the best system overall. The ...

This 5 page paper gives a brief overview of state and local government office holders and issues for New Mexico. Bibliography lists 5 sources.

A 9 page review of the influence presented by special interest groups on American politics. This paper explores both the negative and the positive aspects of that impact. Bibliography lists 7 sources.

This 24 page report discusses the ideals and goals of democratic accountability in relationship to the ongoing development of electronic process in government or “e-government.” Government is moving in the same direction as much of the world in terms of utilizing information technology in communication, commerce, research, and a vast array of other applications of which the average American knows little. That ...

A 4 page paper. Across the nation municipal and county governments have faced decreasing budgets for several years. This leaves local governments looking for innovative ways to promote economic development that will also provide needed or welcome public services. This essay reports some of the innovative partnerships that have been developed among local governments and ...

An 8 page overview of the form of public administration from Plato’s observations to the advent of e-government. Public administration has been accused in the past of being anything but responsive to citizens, but the current shift to e-government heightens transparency and accountability. Further, the current climate of partnership between governments and the ...

A 5 page analysis of the book by Frank Bryan and John McClaughry which proposes to radically change governance in the state of Vermont. The authors would change the fundamental unit of state government to 'shires,' that is, small geographical regions with about 10,000 citizens each. The writer shows how this concept could have radical ...

This 5 page paper considers the attitude of the French government towards terrorists and the actions they are prepared to take as well as the related subject of hostage situations and the policy and apparent behaviour of the French government in these more difficult circumstances. The bibliography cites 8 sources.

A 5 page overview of the changes experienced by the American city over time. Discusses the structural and political organization and the interrelationship of city government with regional, state and federal government. Bibliography lists 3 sources.

A 4 page discussion of the problems currently confronting California. Emphasizing the problems of crime and drugs the author contends that some of these problems can be addressed by the California State government and some cannot. More often than not, in the most complex issues facing the state, a solution is likely to be ...

A 5 page overview of the book titled 'State and Local Politics' by Robert S. Lorch. The book is breifly discussed chapter by chapter with deatils here an there. The point is made that state governments are essential to ensure that the country runs smoothly for the needs of everyone cannot be met by the ...

This 6 page report discusses the relationships that exist between the federal government and American cities. Arguments against federalism claim that it infringes upon the rights of the states and therefore the rights of the citizenry. Such arguments are misplaced since a strong central government does not mean the loss of freedom and property rights ...

5 pages in length. Much of Texas government falls under the heading of "bureaucracy," meaning that it is comprised of various state agencies, departments, bureaus, boards and commissions, each with its own particular functions, responsibilities, budget, staffing and leadership. Some are very well known, such as the Department of Public Safety, while others ...

This is a 3 page paper discussing the pros and cons of tax increases. Increases in income, payroll and property taxes usually meet with opposition when proposed by government officials. However, in many instances an increase in taxes can in the short and long term benefit those who pay them and those who rely on ...

A 3 page paper discussing points of disclosure made in the annual report of the City of Scottsdale for FY2003/2004. For its efforts, the City won the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for FY2003/2004 from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). Bibliography lists 2 sources.

This 4 page paper discusses Political Action Committees, lobbyists, and their influence over government and legislation. Bibliography lists 7 sources.