This collection effectively examines the strategic behaviour of key players in American politics, showing that political actors, though motivated by their own interests, are governed by the Constitution, the law, and institutional rules, as well as influenced by the strategies of others. In this sixth edition of Principles and Practice of American Politics, the articles selected reflect the changing federal-state relationship; the continuing debates over the polarization of the American electorate and Congress; the role of media in influencing public views of politicians and issues; and the ever-evolving state of civil rights and civil liberties. Each and every selection is artfully framed by Kernell and Smith’s contextual headnotes and 7 of the readings are written specifically for the volume. It’s the perfect companion volume for The Logic of American Politics.