In Ambition, Competition and Electoral Reform, Jamie L. Carson and Jason M. Roberts present an original study of U.S. congressional elections and electoral institutions for 1872-1944 from a contemporary political science perspective. Using data on late nineteenth and early twentieth century congressional elections, the authors test the applicability in a historical context of modern political science theories, assess the effects of institutional reforms, and identify the factors that shape the competitiveness of elections. They present several key findings: the strategic politicians theory is applicable in an era without candidate-centred campaigns; there was an incumbency advantage prior to the full development of candidate-centred campaigns; institutional reforms have had a significant effect on elections; and the degree of electoral competition frequently correlates with elected officials' responsiveness to citizens.
- ISBN10 0472028952
- ISBN13 9780472028955
- Publish Date 14 May 2014 (first published 1 January 2013)
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country US
- Imprint University of Michigan Press
- Format eBook
- Pages 189
- Language English