Governing America is an innovative edited textbook, designed for first-time students of American politics. Written by an international team of experts, this volume offers an accessible and comprehensive examination of American politics both before and after September 11.

Divided into four parts, the volume opens with an introduction to the main theoretical and historical surveys of American politics and foreign policy. Part Two analyzes the key institutions of American government, Part Three examines a range of public policies and Part Four assesses a series of contemporary issues and controversies.