The Most Contentious Presidential Transition in American History
Was Abraham Lincoln's the most tumultuous presidential transition in American history?
How Do White House Transitions Actually Work?
How do presidential transitions really work? Political science scholarship on White House staffers provides some insight.
Creating the Voter Fraud Myth
Although in-person voter fraud is close to nonexistent, it’s a big concern for many voters.
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.
What Affects Our Trust in Government?
Government distrust has been on the decline for decades, but a recent poll shows a slight increase.
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."
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.
Why Do We Have National Anthems?
How can a single song represent an entire nation? A closer look at national anthems.
How Televising Presidential Debates Changed Everything
Ever since Kennedy-Nixon, televised debates have given viewers an insight into candidates' policies—and their personalities, too.
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.