Kansas political history book highlights influence of centrist governors with bipartisan instincts
TOPEKA — The pattern embraced by Kansas voters when electing governors during the past half century meant the state consistently alternated between Republicans and Democrats while rewarding candidates with experience in elective office. With one significant exception, the eight people elected governor in those five decades, starting with Republican Robert Bennett in 1975 and culminating […]
First among equals: how Kamala Harris must rewrite the history of female political leadership to win
In the final week of the US presidential election campaign, there is a real possibility a woman will make it into the top job. But why has it taken so long – and has Kamala Harris got what it takes to make history? My research examines celebrated women in history and how, collectively, they represent women’s changing status in society. In particular, I have looked for the historical themes and patterns that explain the rise of the first elected women leaders. Women in politics are generally assumed to be a minority, emerging from a position of disadvantage. When successful, they are...