Brookings: Topics - Governance

Corruption Index Today, Election Tomorrow, Aid Revamp the Day After?

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In reaction to news of brazen corruption in Afghanistan and the release of the new Corruption Perceptions Index, Daniel Kaufmann asks tough questions about the relationship between aid and corruption and suggests improvements in how development aid effectiveness is reviewed.

The Case for Budget Autonomy in the District of Columbia

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Testifying before the U.S. House Subcommittee on the Federal Workforce, Postal Service and the District of Columbia, Alice M. Rivlin, Director of Greater Washington Research at Brookings, asserted that the District of Columbia government should have greater autonomy over its own budget. Once the District government finalizes its budget spending out of its own source revenues, Dr. Rivlin states that it should not be altered or delayed by Congress.

Strengthening United States Fiscal Policy

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Speaking before the Senate Budget Committee, Senior Fellow William Galston discussed how the Untied States’ current fiscal course is unsustainable. The level of deficits, debt, and borrowing from abroad projected for the next decade threatens not only our economic prosperity, but also our currency, global leadership, and national independence, he asserted. Galston recommended that an independent, bi-partisan commission be created to address the challenge of developing a sustainable fiscal policy.

Abdullah's Withdrawal from the Runoff Election in Afghanistan

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon discusses Abdullah Abdullah's withdrawal from Afghanistan's presidential election runoff that was scheduled for November 7. O'Hanlon argues that while Afghan President Karzai can now be viewed as legitimate, although tainted, he is hardly out of the woods.

Bruxelles: è il momento di fare in fretta

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Lisbon Treaty has raised many questions regarding governance of the European Union. Federiga Bindi explains why she believes European Council will use its October meeting to choose the new European Commission.

The European Union, Lisbon and the Office Hunt

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Lisbon Treaty finally secured Irish ratification on October 2, but there are still many obstacles to overcome before the EU can put Lisbon into action. The treaty is not yet fully ratified and many key details, including the selection of leaders to fill the High Representative and EU President posts, remain unresolved. Federiga Bindi explains why Lisbon is important, and describes the intricate negotiation process the EU will undergo in coming months.

Contemporary Development Challenges in Kenya

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 09:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

October 01, 2009, 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM

In October 2009 a high-level delegation of officials from the office of the president and government of Kenya visited the Brookings Institution. The event, which was hosted by the Africa Growth Initiative, included discussion on the key political, economic, and social challenges currently affecting Kenya’s development.

The G-20 Governments Should Look at Their Own Governance

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While the G-20 Summit in Pittsburgh was considered successful, Daniel Kaufmann discusses the need for greater emphasis on governance issues. He urges G-20 countries to address governance within their own borders before the group can effectively start to engage in concrete collective action for the public global good.

Target Compliance: The Final Frontier of Policy Implementation

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Voters elect governments to solve social problems and governments design and implement an array of programs to ensure the public good. However, little theoretical attention has been devoted to the final step of the implementation chain: explanations of why the targets of public policies do or do not “comply” with those policies. Kent Weaver focuses on why program “targets” frequently fail to act in the way that program designers intended and wanted, even when it appears to be in their self-interest to do so.

Tie Troops to Progress on Afghanistan’s Corruption

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Michael O'Hanlon and Jane Harman write that the Afghanistan metrics delivered to Congress last week sorely understate the issue of government corruption. They conclude success in Afghanistan hinges on success of an anti-corruption effort and offer suggestions for both internal and external actors to address the problem.

De l'infériorité des régimes démocratiques dans la conduite des affaires extérieures : une relecture contemporaine de Tocqueville

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Justin Vaïsse challenges Tocqueville's judgment that "Foreign policy demands scarcely any of those qualities which are peculiar to a democracy; they require, on the contrary, the use of almost all those in which it is deficient." But Tocqueville himself, Vaisse points out, had identified some of the strengths that explained the success of democracies in the past century. And contrary to Tocqueville, who feared the tyranny of the majority and the feckless character of the people being imposed to a weak president, Vaïsse points out that the major dangers for democracies reside in the tyranny of minorities and the excessive reach of the Executive branch.

Afghanistan's Elections and Accountable Governance

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The August 20 elections in Afghanistan represent a crucial opportunity to give Afghans a sense of at least some control over their future. Vanda Felbab-Brown examines the leading candidates and argues the international community needs to make it clear to the next Afghan president that assistance is conditioned on improved and accountable governance.

A Crucial Election for Afghanistan's Future

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:48:11 GMT

On August 20, Afghanistan holds a presidential election that many observers feel is a critical component of that country's continued fight against Taliban insurgents along a path to stable governance. Vanda Felbab-Brown says the outcome must be seen as legitimate for the future of the country's development and government's legitimacy.

The 2009 Afghanistan Elections and the Future of Governance

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vanda Felbab-Brown believes the August 20 Afghanistan elections represent a test for at least three critical issues in that country – accountability, military strength and governance. Felbab-Brown argues that ushering in more effective and responsible governance is critical, and she concludes it must be built by Afghan hands rather than forced by international actors.

Restructuring the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation’s Board

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Senate is introducing legislation to reform the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), which currently protects the pensions of nearly 44 million American workers and retirees. The PBGC is simply too large, complex, and important to maintain its current governance system, according to Douglas Elliott. With the PGBC chronically underfunded, and a deficit that could rise to $100 billion over time, Elliott says one useful step would be to increase the effectiveness of its Board of Directors, making it more in line with other public sector corporations.

Protecting the Displaced in Colombia: The Role of Municipal Authorities

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In most societies, citizens have more interaction with municipal authorities than with national government officials. The same is true in Colombia. However, policies that address displacement are often developed by the national government and left to the municipal authorities to implement. In this report, the Brookings-Bern Project presents the issues discussed at a workshop for municipal authorities in how to better respond to the needs of Colombia's IDPs.

Policy Outlook for Immigration Reform

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

There is broad agreement that the nation needs to overhaul its immigration policies, but how to change national policy is shaping up to be a major debate. Sketching the policy outlook for immigration reform, William Galston divides the problem into the specific issues that new immigration legislation must confront: overall level of new legal permanent residents to be admitted; the role of family reunification; employment and skills; making the new law responsive to economic change; enforcement; coping with past policy failures, and integrating the new arrivals.

Preserving Our Institutions: The Continuity of the Presidency

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new report by the AEI-Brookings Continuity of Government Commission examines vulnerabilities in the U.S. presidential succession. It has long been assumed that prospects for a smooth transfer of presidential power in the event of a terrorist attack are assured, as there is already a clear line of succession to the nation's highest office. However, as the report's authors point out, the existing presidential succession could be rendered useless by a catastrophic attack because everyone in line to succeed the president lives and works in Washington, D.C.

Structuring the Consumer Financial Protection Agency

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration recently released a more detailed legislative proposal for its proposed Consumer Financial Protection Agency (CFPA). Douglas Elliott believes the proposal appears to retain the intended benefit of a clear focus on consumer protection while addressing seriously the potential for destroying useful financial products. It also aims to prevent the new agency from “empire building.”

Governance Matters 2009: Learning From Over a Decade of the Worldwide Governance Indicators

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Policy analysts, civil society groups and aid donors agree that good governance is critical for sustainable economic development. Yet, improving governance and fighting corruption is not always a priority, highlighting serious challenges in global economics. Daniel Kaufmann, Aart Kraay and Massimo Mastruzzi, authors of Governance Matters VIII and the updated Worldwide Governance Indicators, analyze evidence from 212 countries that shows good governance has a strong, positive impact on development.

Governance Matters VIII: Aggregate and Individual Governance Indicators, 1996-2008

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Daniel Kaufmann, Aart Kraay and Massimo Mastruzzi release Governance Matters VIII: Governance Indicators for 1996-2008. By updating the Worldwide Governance Indicators, the authors measure institutional quality, governance and the investment climate across 212 countries worldwide to show that good governance has a strong, positive impact on development.

Statutory PAYGO: An Important First Step Toward Fiscal Responsibility

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Testifying before the House Budget Committee, Alice Rivlin urged enforcement of the statutory pay-as-you-go budget rules to rein in the long-term deficit. She endorsed the recent actions taken to stimulate the economy and rescue the financial sector, but said the costly measures further obligate Congress and the administration to control deficits.

Bernanke Faces New Questions Over Role of the Fed

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke faced fresh questions from a House committee Thursday over the central bank's role facilitating Bank of America's purchase of Merrill Lynch. Martin Baily discusses the Federal Reserve's future role with Jeffrey Brown on NewsHour.

Innovation in Government: How to Make the Public Sector Faster, Smarter and More Connected

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 17, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

On June 17, Brookings hosted an event on how new technology can make the public sector perform faster and smarter. Brookings Vice President and Director of Governance Studies Darrell West released a new study, “Comparing Technology Innovation in the Private and Public Sectors.”

The Scouting Report: Technology Innovation for Open Government

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 17, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30

Brookings expert Darrell West and Politico Senior Editor David Mark discussed ways the government can use the Internet and new technologies to provide better, faster, more transparent and accountable service to its people in the June 17 edition of the Scouting Report.

Know Thy Neighbor: What Canada Can Tell Us About Financial Regulation

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration and Congress are working rapidly to design a new regulatory architecture for the nation’s financial system. “They might consider taking a page or two from a model next door—Canada,” write Pietro Nivola and John C. Courtney, as they explore why the Canadian banking system remains solvent and solid amid the current global crisis.

The Future of President Obama's Agenda

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Although many commentators believe that President Obama will be forced, or at least well advised, to focus his agenda on the economy, President Obama has wagered his presidency on the proposition that the U.S. budget and political system can simultaneously absorb an economic stimulus, bail-outs of financial institutions, the housing sector and the automobile industry, and a social-democratic programme not seen since the days of Lyndon B. Johnson writes William Galston.

The Future of Liberalism

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 10:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 16, 2009, 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

On April 16, William Galston moderated a discussion with Alan Wolfe, author of The Future of Liberalism (Knopf, 2009), on how the liberal tradition can influence and illuminate contemporary debates on issues such as immigration, abortion, executive power, religious freedom and free speech. E.J. Dionne, Jr. and Ross Douthat offered their thoughts on liberalism’s roots and how it can be applied to today’s problems.

The Summit of the Americas and Democracy

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 15:57:55 GMT

In previewing the fifth Summit of the Americas, Ted Piccone notes that popular support for democracy and good governance is widespread in Latin America and that the United States has an opportunity to fix its approach to democracy assistance.

Will Big Government Change The Rules of Commerce?

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Alice Rivlin joined bigthink.com to discuss how businesses can succeed in a new regulatory environment.

Center-Left America?

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Pietro Nivola examines public attitudes toward the economic crisis, health care, the environment, immigration and foreign affairs. He argues that Americans appear to have tilted toward the Democrats only on some matters and that much of the public remains divided or doubtful about the capacity of government to meet the nation’s greatest challenges.

Shaping a Globalized World

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Carlos Pascual believes short- and long-term issues of globalization cannot be considered independently from one another. Rather, the biggest challenge for transnational governance lies in the scale of the global agenda, and the complexity and interconnectedness of individual issues. Pascual calls for a redefinition of global responsibilities in order to tackle the essential challenges of a globalized world.

Metro Potential in ARRA: An Early Assessment of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

America’s national economic crisis is also a metropolitan crisis, because metropolitan areas are the true engines of the national economy. So it matters intensely how well the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) empowers metropolitan leaders to boost prosperity. This paper finds that although ARRA is limited in its support for creative metropolitan-area implementation, it delivers critical investments in what matters to metros and holds out significant opportunity for metropolitan empowerment and problem-solving.

Restoring Obama's Promise

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Many argue that President Obama is biting off way more than he can chew, "overloading" the system and dealing with all sorts of "side issues," when he should be focusing solely on the broken economy. E.J. Dionne writes that Obama's biggest task will be restoring faith that what he had in mind is still possible.

The U.S. is Still a Capitalist Country

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the New Deal took shape, President Franklin Roosevelt was accused of undermining capitalism. His response was that he was saving capitalism, not least from itself. Today, in the midst of another economic crisis, cries of "socialism" once again abound. These are old debates, writes Brookings expert William Galston, which many of us thought had been resolved during the New Deal. The fact that they are being revived today testifies both to the gravity of our economic ills and to the persistence of longstanding misconceptions about how modern market economies actually work.

Barack's Too-Long Wish List: How the President Should Focus His Agenda

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Like Presidents Reagan and Carter, Obama has an ambitious agenda for the nation. But will President Obama be as successful in pushing his agenda as Reagan, or as unsuccessful as Carter? Surprisingly, a key indicator of success is not early economic performance. As Brookings expert William Galston writes, the core issue is clarity and self-discipline, to deal with only a relatively small number of issues at a time. Thus, President Obama needs to focus his considerable leadership and communication skills on the financial crisis.

Put Earmarks in Perspective

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The $410 billion omnibus spending bill has about 9,000 earmarks, constituting less than one percent of the federal budget. Thomas Mann argues that abolishing earmarks would have a trivial effect on the level of spending and budget deficits. Instead, he says attention needs to be placed on the critical decisions that we face in the months and years ahead, including making sure new funds are expended in the most responsible way possible.

Can Metropolitan Leaders Make the Stimulus Package Work?

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Obama’s economic recovery package will succeed to the extent it juices metropolitan areas, the true engines of the U.S. economy. Mark Muro and Sarah Rahman argue that, for all the business-as-usual in Washington, the disconnected funding flows of the stimulus will strengthen the cause of regionalism in America.

Brookings Doha Center International Advisory Council Inaugural Meeting

Sun, 15 Feb 2009 18:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

February 15, 2009, 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

On February 15, 2009, His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabr Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, convened the inaugural Brookings Doha Center International Advisory Council meeting in Doha, Qatar.

The U.S. and China: A Grand Bargain?

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Is recent sparring between the U.S. and China over currency manipulation a foreshadowing of future economic relations? Eswar Prasad instead proposes a solution: a new “grand bargain” between China and the U.S. for economic cooperation across fiscal and monetary policy, currency flexibility and governance reform at multilateral financial institutions.

Why the Stimulus Package May Be Too Weak to Fix the Economy

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration seeks to promote three goals through the stimulus package: jump-start an immediate surge in consumer demand and job creation; make a down-payment on longer-term campaign promises; and initiate a new era of bipartisanship. However, writes William Galston, due to the bill's divided focus, its stimulative effects may prove too weak to halt or reverse more than a fraction of the job losses predicted for the next two years.

Corruption and the Global Financial Crisis

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the Obama administration announces new rules for lobbyists, particularly focused on stimulus funds, Brookings expert Daniel Kaufmann examines the role that corruption and influence have played in the global financial crisis, and suggests ways policymakers should address these issues in future regulation.

Maintaining Presidential Popularity During a Recession

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President Barack Obama starts his term with the highest approval rating of any recent new president. Expert Darrell West writes that President Obama can maintain his popularity, amid dismal economic news, with his oratorical skills, ability to keep people hopeful about the future, and use of new technologies for public outreach.

Short and Long-Run Fiscal Challenges

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In testimony to the Senate Budget Committee, Alice Rivlin argued that the future health of the nation’s economy depends on whether policy-makers can focus on two imperatives at once: the need to take immediate action to mitigate the impact of the recession; and the need to restore long-term fiscal responsibility and reassure our creditors that we are getting our fiscal house in order.

The Obama Era and the Digital White House

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Barack Obama’s presidential campaign used an array of online tools to organize supporters and raise money. Now, his administration will try applying the same tools to governing. Darrell West joined The Kojo Nnamdi Show to discuss the future of e-government.

Assessing the 110th Congress, Anticipating the 111th

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Sarah Binder, Thomas Mann, Norman Ornstein and Molly Reynolds look ahead to the 111th Congress and what it will take to overcome the shortcomings of the 110th. Although the previous Congress was able to achieve some policy successes, increase oversight of the executive and strengthen ethics standards and procedures, it was limited in its ability to overcome fully the realities of divided government, the ideological polarization of the parties and the institutional dynamics that have shaped Congress in recent years.

New President's Economic Plan Faces Numerous Congressional Hurdles

Thu, 08 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

President-elect Barack Obama's economic recovery plan may face significant resistance in Congress. Thomas Mann and Norman Ornstein joined Margaret Warner on the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer to discuss the hurdles the Obama proposal will likely encounter as he pushes his agenda on Capitol Hill.

Presidential Accountability for Wars of Choice

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this Issues in Governance Studies, Bruce Buchanan examines how Congress and the American people evaluate presidential wars of choice. When it comes to whether or not to use American military power, presidential discretion is virtually unchecked. Using the Korean War, Vietnam War and the current Iraqi operation as case models, Buchanan explores the presidential accountability for wars of choice and recommends the use of policy trials.

Capitol Hill Needs Old Codgers, Spring Chickens and a Middle-Aged Spread

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Fullilove analyzes the age dilemma in Washington and notes the average age of a U.S. senator is 62—a full quarter of a century older than the average age of a U.S. citizen. However, there are growing signs—like the younger appointments to the Obama administration—that the American gerontocracy is crumbling at the edges.

Intelligent Design: How to Change America

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

William Galston examines what’s wrong with our current political institutions, given the current financial crisis and lack of coherent governance, and proposes how to create a better government.

The Next Government of the United States: Why Our Institutions Fail Us and How to Fix Them

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

December 17, 2008, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

The next administration will face the reality that our 20th century government is no match for our 21st century problems. Brookings Senior Fellow William Galston moderated a discussion with Donald Kettl, author of The Next Government of the United States: Why Our Institutions Fail Us and How to Fix Them, to examine the governance challenges facing the next administration and offer solutions to the policy problems plaguing our government.

What Now? Choosing Your Cabinet

Fri, 12 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Washington world is full of talented, accomplished people whose expertise in their fields is unquestioned – yet many fail as cabinet officers at the pinnacle of power. Stephen Hess advises the new president on where to look for cabinet talent.

Reagan to Bush: Brookings and the 1988-89 Presidential Transition

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Even though the 1988 presidential transition featured a handover from a two-term president (Ronald Reagan) to his own vice president (George H.W. Bush), experts at Brookings recognized that even an intra-party transition between political allies suffered from a lack of communication between outgoing presidential aides and their counterparts in the new administration.

What Now? Your Speechwriters

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Will the soaring rhetoric of President-elect Obama's campaign speeches translate to the White House, where he has named 26-year-old wordsmith Jon Favreau to head his speechwriting staff? Former Eisenhower speechwriter and longtime presidential aide Stephen Hess discusses the role of the speechwriter in delivering the chief executive's vision to the people.

What Now? Your Congressional Relations Chief

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

President-elect Obama has chosen Phil Schiliro, a veteran of the Senate and House of Representatives, to be his liaison to Capitol Hill. Stephen Hess, author of What Do We Do Now?, says that Schiliro’s long congressional experience and low profile have been hallmarks of success for his predecessors.

Carter to Ford: Brookings and the 1976-77 Presidential Transition

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

When President-elect Jimmy Carter took office in the 1976-77 transition, he reached out to Brookings scholars for help on both domestic and foreign affairs, as well as advice on how to structure his White House staff.

What Now? Picking Your Press Secretary

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Many new presidents pick their campaign spokesperson to handle the White House press corps. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t, as Stephen Hess advises in this installment of What Do We Do Now?.

Johnson to Nixon: Brookings and the 1968-69 Presidential Transition

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In 1968, the nation was devastated by the assassinations of Robert F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King, Jr., and a divisive three-way battle for the presidency raged. Brookings scholars trained their sights on solving contentious domestic issues.

The Politics of Presidential Appointments

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 12, 2008, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

President-elect Barack Obama now faces the daunting challenge of shaping a new administration. On November 12, William Galston moderated a discussion with David Lewis and Kathryn Dunn Tenpas to examine the basis on which presidents pick their political appointees and the impact of their choices on government performance.

What Now? Staffing the White House

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this second installment of What Do We Do Now?, his new workbook for the president-elect, Stephen Hess advises the winner to start staffing the White House right away, from the chief of staff, counsel, press secretary and speech writers.

Memo to the President: Lead With Confidence

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The president-elect faces enormous challenges, but comes into office buoyed by an electorate hungry for change. Effective leadership, both at home and abroad, will require mobilizing grass-roots support and repositioning government as a solution rather than as a problem.

Lead With Confidence

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 07, 2008, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

Brookings held the first of 12 events to provide timely policy recommendations and advice to the incoming president and his transition team. Darrell West offered a public memo to the president-elect with advice on bringing a polarized electorate together, the first of 12 Brookings memos on the most crucial public policy priorities. He was joined by former White House chiefs of staff Ken Duberstein and Leon Panetta; Brooking Senior Fellow Stephen Hess; and other experts.

Eisenhower to Kennedy: Brookings and the 1960-61 Presidential Transition

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly 50 years ago, the country weathered a historical presidential transition in turbulent times, as John F. Kennedy bested Richard Nixon in a close race to replace Eisenhower. Brookings played a behind-the-scenes role to help ease the transition.

After the Obama Win

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Television viewers knew early that Barack Obama would be the 44th president and Democrats would hold greater margins in Congress. But in the reality of the day, writes William Galston, the president-elect and congressional leaders have only a short time to make key decisions and must coalesce around a set of promises that can be met before voters rethink in 2010. While Republicans regroup, Democrats have a chance to make their case.

The 2008 Presidential and Congressional Elections

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 13:11:12 GMT

Darrell West and Thomas Mann offer insights on the just-elected executive and legislative branches of government. Their goal in January, says West, is to bring change to American politics. But things will not go smoothly, warns Mann; “Conflict is natural, especially when you’re doing important things.”

What Now? Getting Started

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The new president has just 77 days between the election and the inauguration to prepare for taking over the highest office in the land. This excerpt from Stephen Hess’s book offers tips on where he should start.

In Defense of Caution: Why President Obama Shouldn't Push For Too Much Too Fast

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

By the end of February 2009, the next president will have to define his top domestic priorities, submit a budget, and begin the difficult process of unwinding America's combat presence in Iraq. Despite today's crisis environment, William Galston cautions that the next president shouldn’t emulate FDR's first 100 days, or LBJ's feverish legislative pace in 1965 and 1966. The more ambitious the agenda, the more likely it is to fall victim to entrenched political realities.

The Scouting Report: Lead With Confidence

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 12:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

November 04, 2008, 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM

Winning an election in a polarized nation is one thing—governing it is quite another. The Scouting Report chat launched with a special Election Day edition. Brookings Vice President of Governance Studies Darrell West and Politico Senior Editor David Mark discussed the advertising, the candidates and the status of the race on election day.

The Presidential Transition

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

After a long campaign, American voters will elect a new Congress and a new commander-in-chief. Brookings President Strobe Talbott discusses the agenda for the president-elect, and announces a new effort to re-examine the top challenges he’ll face in the wake of a historic campaign and an unprecedented global financial crisis.

Policy Making in the Bush White House

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The White House Office is so large and complex that systematic process of policy evaluation is essential in order to provide the president with a range of options on all important policy decisions. However, some of the most important decisions that President Bush has made have been taken without the benefit of broad deliberation within the White House or Cabinet, writes James Pfiffner for a Brookings paper.

Latin America: Coming of Age

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Apart from the new pressures of the global financial crisis, the countries of Latin America are enjoying a period of economic growth, prosperity, and stable democracies. Yet these countries are also experiencing a great demographic change that will place more demand on their economies and governments. Leonardo Martinez-Diaz explains what these trends will mean for the region.

Accelerating the Creation of Enterprise Societies: A New Nigerian Mindset

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Speaking at the 14^th Nigerian Economic Summit, Richard Joseph reflects on governance and institutional capacity building in Nigeria, with respect to how Nigeria can confront its economic challenges and move to sustained growth.

Transformation and High Sustained Growth: Governance and Public Service in Nigeria

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Speaking at the 14th Nigerian Economic Summit, Richard Joseph reflects on governance and public service in Nigeria, with respect to how Nigeria can maximize its economic potential.

Protecting Internally Displaced Persons: A Manual for Law and Policymakers

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Currently an estimated 26 million men, women and children have been displaced within their countries' borders because of conflict, with even larger numbers displaced by natural disasters and development projects. While this is a global phenomenon, responsibility rests with national governments.

The Expanding Role of Government

Sat, 11 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In wake of the financial crisis and the $700 billion financial rescue package, William Galston and others joined Bill Bennett to discuss the role of government in the United States in a second special edition of CNN’s Beyond the Politics.

Top 10 Global Economic Challenges Facing America's 44th President

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As President-Elect Obama prepares to lead the United States, what are the top global economic challenges facing the new president and his advisors and how should the new administration address them? A new report by Brookings global economic and development experts ranks the top 10 issues and details specific ideas for how to tackle the toughest challenges.

A “Broken” Branch? Four Lessons from Congress’s Great Financial Bailout Saga

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

When the House temporarily turned back the Bush Administration’s colossal financial rescue plan, many proclaimed the country’s political system gridlocked and dysfunctional. Cut them some slack, writes Brookings expert Pietro Nivola, who debunks the unwarranted ridicule that has deepened an already alarming degree of distrust of our venerable political institutions and public servants.

Development Doesn't Require Big Government

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Reflecting on the current financial crisis, William Easterly discusses how sustainable development does not require the sole action of governments, but also individual entrepreneurs and innovators.

The Efficacy of Information Policy

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The book Archon Fung, Mary Graham, and David Weil’s Full Disclosure: The Perils and Promise of Transparency provides a thorough discussion of governmentmandated disclosure policies. Clifford Winston uses their book to frame an empirical assessment of whether these—and other information policies—have significantly reduced the costs to consumers created by imperfect information.

Healthy Choice: A Step-by-Step approach to Universal Health Care

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Many Democrats see a return to the White House a call to resume the fight for full-blown national health insurance. Henry Aaron argues, a more modest, step-by-step approach carries a greater chance of success and—even more important—a smaller chance of devastating failure.

The Financial Market Bailout

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 14:43:48 GMT

Policy-makers spent a long weekend hashing out details on legislation that would provide up to $700 billion to purchase Wall Street assets, new oversight authority and more foreclosure prevention. Former Federal Reserve Vice Chair Alice Rivlin explains how mortgage securities unraveled, how the deal makers prevailed and what this will mean for the next administration.

Nano: The Car for the Common Man?

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In January 2008, excitement surrounded the revelation by Tata Motors to offer the world’s cheapest vehicle, the Tata Nano, with a purchase price of US$2,500. Tata was praised for creating a car for the common man in India, but Arvind Panagariya questions the real cost of Nano’s production on taxpayers by examining the tripartite agreement signed between Tata Motors, West Bengal government and West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation.

“Change” or Plus Ça Change…? Pondering Presidential Politics and Policy after Bush

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

President-elect Obama faces daunting challenges when he assumes office in January. Pietro Nivola and Charles O. Jones examine these and the probable policy outcomes, at home and abroad, of an Obama presidency.

A Brief Guide To Fixing Finance

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Martin Baily and Robert Litan analyze the long-term implications of recent and proposed government efforts to stabilize the markets and the economy at large. As Congress considers legislation this week, Baily and Litan stress the importance of understanding how and why the dominoes fell, and most important, they advocate important systemic fixes: transparency, institutional liquidity and better oversight and tools given to regulators.

Concerns about the Treasury Rescue Plan

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Tumult in financial markets continues to rattle the nation and spur government response. Douglas Elmendorf offers his analysis on how government funds might be best injected into the crisis-ridden economy. He weighs several approaches, from buying mortgage-related debt and other troubled securities to investing in a wide range of financial institutions.

America Will Need a $1,000Bn Bail-out

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the financial sector continues to suffer and the crisis grows deeper, Ken Rogoff examines the future costs of fixing the U.S. system and explores issues of regulation and the strength of the U.S. economy in a globalized context.

State and Federal Electronic Government in the United States, 2008

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Darrell West assesses the nature of American state and federal electronic government in 2008 by examining whether e-government effectively capitalizes on the interactive features available on the Internet to improve service delivery and public outreach.

Improving Technology Utilization in Electronic Government around the World, 2008

Sun, 17 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Few developments have had broader consequences for the public sector than the introduction of the Internet and digital technology. In this Brookings report, Darrell West assesses the current conditions of electronic government around the world and offers practical suggestions for improving the delivery of information and services over the Internet.

Is It Possible to Fix Government? - A NewTalk discussion

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Thomas Mann joined a distinguished panel, including Mayor Michael Bloomberg of New York and Congressman Jim Cooper of Tennessee, to address the problems within U.S. government and possible solutions.

MetroPolicy: Shaping a New Federal Partnership for a Metropolitan Nation

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

To unleash greater local and national prosperity U.S. metropolitan leaders need to be better equipped to deal with today’s increasingly dynamic economic, social and environmental realities. This report calls for a new federal-state-metro partnership that provides metropolitan actors the support, capacity, tools and discretion they need to resolve key challenges; grow in more productive, inclusive, and sustainable ways; and, ultimately, to maximize America’s overall prosperity.

How Big Government Got Its Groove Back

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Today's economy requires an expanded role for government, writes William Galston. In this article, he argues that the United States needs a new social contract that reorganizes responsibilities among government, individuals and the private sector.

Climate Change, Trade and Competitiveness: Is a Collision Inevitable?

Mon, 09 Jun 2008 08:15:00 GMT

Event Information:

June 09, 2008, 8:15 AM to 6:00 PM

On June 9, 2008, Brookings convened more than 70 stakeholders for a conference on “Climate Change, Trade and Competitiveness.” The conference was led by Lael Brainard and focused on how climate change presents a new set of challenges for the world trading system and potential strategies to mitigate future conflicts.

A Review of Proposed Voluntary Voting System Guidelines

Tue, 20 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Election officials may be concerned about the security and accuracy of their systems in the short-term, but the EAC has been considering new guidelines that will affect voting systems far into the future. A task force of the Election Reform Project issued a set of recommendations on improving these guidelines.

Why Are Women Still Not Running for Public Office?

Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Women in the United States remain severely under-represented in our political institutions. Jennifer Lawless and Richard Fox argue that this is because women do not run for office at the same rate men do. They offer guidance to organizations and individuals seeking to increase the number of women in elected positions.

Sharing a Passion for Getting the Policy Right

Thu, 08 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The following remarks were delivered by Alice Rivlin upon accepting the Inaugural Daniel Patrick Moynihan Prize on May 8th, 2008 at the The American Academy of Political and Social Science. In addition to speaking about her relationship with Moynihan, Rivlin spoke about the issues of welfare and race.

Compound Democracies: The Growing Similarities Between the U.S. and Europe

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 15:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 29, 2008, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM

According to Sergio Fabbrini, professor of political science at Italy’s Trento University, the differences between U.S. and European democracies are diminishing—the result of regional integration in Europe over the last 60 years. The political systems of the European Union and U.S. now represent two species of the same political genus: the compound democracy. On April 29, the Center on the United States and Europe hosted Professor Fabbrini for a discussion of compound democracies and the growing similarities between the U.S. and Europe.

Unusual Nonsense: Supreme Court's Decision about "Cruel and Unusual Punishment"

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Supreme Court recently handed down a decision upholding as constitutional the specific mixture of drugs by which thirty states put condemned prisoners to death. In this piece, Ben Wittes writes about the Supreme Court's failure to rationalize its decisions about cruel and unusual punishment.

Public Confidence in Charities, 2008 Report

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Public confidence in charities remains at contemporary lows, writes Paul C. Light in a recent report. Americans will be treated to a cascade of stories about charitable fraud, waste and abuse unless the sector takes aggressive action to create headlines about success.

High Time for a Helping Hand for Strapped American Families

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Americans are gloomy about the economy these days. Despite widespread economic malaise, writes Elisabeth Jacobs, little has been done to strengthen the safety net for American families in financial duress. And though some presidential candidates have begun to call for action, evidence suggests that the American people need action now.

Reexamining American Exceptionalism

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 23, 2008, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

During the nation’s infancy, Alexis de Tocqueville meticulously studied America’s democratic experiment and defined the contours of American exceptionalism. Nearly 200 years later, scholars James Q. Wilson and Peter Schuck reconsider what defines the United States and its role in our rapidly changing world in Understanding America: The Anatomy of an Exceptional Nation (Public Affairs, 2008). William Galston moderated a discussion with Wilson, Schuck and Brookings scholars Don Kettl and Ron Haskins.