Overview of Recent Developments


I.        Blossoming of State Governments

          A.    1980's -- A Time of Rejuvenation

                  1.    Governmental Reforms

                  2.    Enhanced Political Clout

                  3.    Improved Revenue Picture

                  4.    Broadened Scope of Public Policies

            B.    Dynamic Governors - Governing Changes People

                  1.    Mitch Daniels (Gov.)

                  2.    Bob Riley - (actions taken as Governor)

II.        Population Dynamics

            A.    Ethnicity

            B.    Growth (State Population)

            C.    Migration

            C.    Political Culture  -- additional description

            D.    Culture Wars

III.       Characteristics of the U.S. 50 State System

            A.    Diversity

            B.    Competitiveness

            C.    Resiliency


Key Web Sites

Stateline E-Magazine

Governing:  State and Local Governments

U.S. Government Official Web Portal

U.S. Census

Money in State Politics

Council of State Governments