This volume brings together the innovative ideas of 21 of America's leading governors and mayors expressed in their own words. The book features contributions carefully collected and selected over several years, including chapters by former Governors George Bush of Texas and Tommy Thompson of Wisconsin and Mayors Giuliani and Daley of New York and Chicago respectively.
The editors have cast these varied contributions within the framework of "the New Public Management", whose main elements are: (1) reverting to core functions; (2) devolving authority and decentralizing; (3) "rightsizing", or limiting the size and scope of government; (4) restoring civil society; (5) adopting market principles; (6) managing for results, satisfying citizens, and holding government accountable; (7) empowering employees, citizens, and communities; and (8) introducing e-government and modern technology.