This volume is part of a long-running annual series that pulls together current readings to offer students a window into the real world of US state and local politics and policymaking. There is complete turnover of pieces from year to year, so the collection is as up to date as possible. The readings are pulled from both academic journals and such respected sources as Governing, Campaigns & Elections, Statenews, and State Legislatures. Kevin Smith offers meaty part introductions to set background and context for each section of readings.