When the topic of social welfare programs come up in my political science classes, the subject usually sparks a heated … Continue reading Urban legends and current politics

As Senate leaders announced general agreement on a bill to avoid a debt ceiling crisis and reopen government, media stories … Continue reading Meta-talk and news coverage of the latest government dysfunction

In recent weeks, I have been discussing the government shutdown and potential debt crisis in my classes. Most students really … Continue reading Teaching Political Science in the Tea Party Age

As the United States heads from a partial government shutdown last week to the almost unimaginable scenario of defaulting on … Continue reading When politicians believe their own bluster