Beginning in 2010, more than 40 states adopted the Common Core State Standards. In the years immediately following their adoption, educators, parents, and policymakers familiar with the standards strongly supported them. Both Republicans and Democrats heralded the Common Core as one of the most promising school reforms in decades. Fast forward to…

The next decade will see the workload of Congress increase as its power weakens. The result may be more delay and confusion in the decision-making process. (RM)

News reports regarding the relationship between Massachusetts Congressman Barney Frank and a male prostitute reflect a growing willingness to hold public officials responsible for private acts. The incident triggered a classic example of apologia--a speech of self-defense. As critics have long suggested, the intangible nature of the…

In recent years, television spot advertising has become an important part of political campaigns because it allows candidates to select the most favorable content, medium, time, and audience available to them. In the 1984 United States Senate campaign in Michigan, both the incumbent, Democrat Carl Levin, and the challenger, Republican Jack Lousma,…

In this study a new and quantitative approach to analyzing legislature change was applied to the U.S. Senate's change from support to opposition to the Vietnam war. Cumulative war costs, public opinion, and antiwar demonstrations all correlated with Senate roll call outcomes, but were also intercorrelated. General strengths and weaknesses of this…

A study of the different perceptual frameworks of the major parties involved in strategic nuclear policy was conducted by examining the interaction between the Executive Branch, Congress, and the informed public. Public political communication data were gathered from public documents generated by Congress and the Executive branch, and by examining…

This guide offers advice on influencing public policy and educational practice to the benefit of young children and the early childhood community. Included is information on the types of advocacy; how to work with others; the basics of federal, state, and local policy; and tips on disseminating information. Following an introduction highlighting…

Facts and controversial issues concerning SALT II (Strategic Arms Limitations Talks) are examined. The intent of the document is to enable non-specialists in military/strategic matters to arrive at their own conclusions. Central questions explored are: Is it possible to arrive at an agreement that will stabilize strategic arms competition and…