Campaigns & Elections

Confidence in the democratic institutions and norms has fallen for decades. A renewal of faith in elections and democracy requires election reform that boosts confidence in our governing system.

California Update: AI To The (Fiscal) Rescue; Spencer For Hire In LA?California Update: AI To The (Fiscal) Rescue; Spencer For Hire In LA?
Matters of Policy & Politics

California’s revised state budget for the new fiscal year beginning in July comes with a plot twist – a deficit that’s no more, courtesy of an unexpected capital-gains tax windfall. But is the same entity that showered Sacramento with billions in tax revenue – California’s vibrant AI sector – also a source of long-term economic and policy concerns (tech-related job losses; competing with farmers for water and electricity)? And how does AI and the jittery state of California’s finances factor into Gov. Gavin Newsom’s presidential ambitions? Meanwhile, as the Golden State’s June 2 primary approaches, is it time to take reality-TV “villain” and Palisades Fire victim Spencer Pratt seriously as he gains ground in Los Angeles’ contentious mayoral race?

Recorded on May 20, 2026.

Divided We Stand? David Brady On America’s “New Electoral Instability”Divided We Stand? David Brady On America’s “New Electoral Instability”

Divided We Stand? David Brady On America’s “New Electoral Instability”

“A 100-Year Storm”: Ben Ginsberg On Bush V. Gore Turning 25, Restoring Confidence In US Elections“A 100-Year Storm”: Ben Ginsberg On Bush V. Gore Turning 25, Restoring Confidence In US Elections

“A 100-Year Storm”: Ben Ginsberg On Bush V. Gore Turning 25, Restoring Confidence In US Elections

Now What Do We Do?Now What Do We Do?

Now What Do We Do?

America Votes – The System HoldsAmerica Votes – The System Holds

America Votes – The System Holds

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What does it mean to be an American citizen?

Navigating choice and responsibility in a free society

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Politics, Institutions, and Public Opinion

The Hoover fellowship regularly analyzes the political environment shaping government leaders’ decision making, on issues ranging from the economy and national security to public health, education, and the environment. The Institution also conducts two bi-annual polls that measure voters’ attitudes toward social, economic, and political institutions, reactions to specific government policies, and beliefs about the direction of America.

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The Presidency

Hoover scholars examine the policy decisions of the executive branch and whether those actions fall within the responsibilities and limits of presidential power as spelled out in the US Constitution. They address the impact of presidential decision making and executive branch regulations in a broad spectrum of policy areas including national security, the economy, the environment, energy, public health, and more.

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