Features: The text explores four specific themes throughout its chapters:The role of power and influence in state and local government and politics The tension between representative and participatory politics The ways in which the structures of government and political processes interact Whether the outcomes produced by the governmental institutions and processes are good or bad. Practical Exercises present real world scenarios that motivate students to get involved in their local the political systems. Questions for Review and Chapter Discussion Questions help students review the main ideas of each chapter.  New to this Edition: This First Edition text is intended to serve as the core reading for a course on state and local politics.