Grover Cleveland cartoon

The Venerable Tradition of the Presidential Sex Scandal

Americans have been obsessed with the sexual character and moral rectitude, or lack thereof, of politicians from the beginning. 
Nixon transcripts

What Affects Our Trust in Government?

Government distrust has been on the decline for decades, but a recent poll shows a slight increase.
Oprah and Obamas

A Little Political Knowledge Is…Much Better Than Nothing

Studies show that viewers do gain political knowledge through daytime television and other forms of "soft news."
Thomas Jefferson

Is the “Alt-Right” The Grandchild of the Old Right?

The political term "alt-right" is all the rage now, but it's not so clear what it means. Looking at one of its antecedents may help.
Fort McHenry Flag, 1873

Why Do We Have National Anthems?

How can a single song represent an entire nation? A closer look at national anthems.
Nixon Kennedy televised debate

How Televising Presidential Debates Changed Everything

Ever since Kennedy-Nixon, televised debates have given viewers an insight into candidates' policies—and their personalities, too.
Anders Leonard Zor, portrait of Grover Cleveland

History’s Biggest Presidential Health Cover-Up

How important is a President's health? Should the public know all? History suggests that full disclosure is better than not.
Kindness and politics

The Politics of Kindness in 2016

Kindness matters. It’s just that our politicians have their own reasons for their own kind behavior.
1896 Presidential Ballot

Ballot Position: It Matters

Did you know that ballot position can have an effect on voting? The first-listed candidate is more likely to be voted for.
John Hinckley Jr mugshot

What Do People Think of the Insanity Defense?

John Hinckley Jr., who tried to assassinate President Ronald Reagan in 1981, has been released from the psychiatric hospital where ...