"Four Threats: The Recurring Crises of American Democracy"
Abstract: Is American democracy in danger of backsliding today? Many assume that it is safe, given the nation’s long-standing Constitution, system of checks and balances, long history of stability, and progress in granting more inclusive and extensive rights over time. Yet an evaluation of American history...
"Cutting in Line: The Role of Interest Group Networks in Presidential Appointments"
Abstract: While prior work has shown that interest group opposition to presidential nominees can reduce the likelihood of confirmation and extend the confirmation period, little is known about the mechanism and context of these findings. This paper seeks...
"Control without Confirmation: The Politics of Vacancies in Presidential Appointments"
Abstract: Separation of powers models typically assume executives are constrained by the need for legislative approval when placing agents in unelected office. In practice, vital policymaking positions are often filled with temporary officials---or...
"Police (De)Militarization, Bureaucratic Compliance, and Violent Crime"
Abstract: The transfer of $5 billion in military equipment to local law enforcement agencies is among the most important recent developments in contemporary American governance. Yet, those transfers and their effects are not well understood by social...
