People are often hesitant to become involved in the political process, but AMERICAN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS TODAYuTEXAS EDITION, 2009-2010 demonstrates how seemingly small steps can make a big difference. Combining comprehensive coverage of the U.S. and Texas political processes, the book uses intriguing, real-life examples and exercises to engage readers in the fascinating intricacies of American governmentuinspiring you to participate in the political process. As it introduces concepts, the book illustrates specific ways readers can participate, showing through exciting examples how individualsuof all ages and backgroundsucan make a profound impact. Active participation can be as simple as calling a local politician to share an opinion on a local issue, registering to vote, or viewing a town council meeting on local access cable. The book includes expanded coverage of the 2008 presidential election and promotes critical thinking throughout with issue discussion, comparison, and debate. Engaging and inspiring, AMERICAN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS TODAYuTEXAS EDITION, 2009-2010 helps readers discover the importance of active, informed citizenship. Again and again, readers see the power of one to make a difference.

Table of Contents

PART I: THE AMERICAN SYSTEM. 1. The Democratic Republic. 2. The Constitution. 3. Federalism. PART II: CIVIL RIGHTS AND CIVIL LIBERTIES. 4. Civil Liberties. 5. Civil Rights. PART III: PEOPLE AND POLITICS. 6. Public Opinion and Political Socialization. 7. Interest Groups. 8. Political Parties. 9. Voting and Elections. 10. Campaigning for Office. 11. The Media and Cyberpolitics. PART IV: POLITICAL INSTITUTIONS. 12. The Congress. 13. The President. 14. The Bureaucracy. 15. The Courts. PART V: PUBLIC POLICY. 16. Domestic Policy. 17. Economic Policy. 18. Foreign Policy. PART VI: TEXAS POLITICS. 19. Texas History and Culture. 20. The Texas Constitution. 21. Texas Interest Groups. 22. Political Parties in Texas. 23. Voting and Elections in Texas. 24. The Texas Legislature. 25. The Texas Executive Branch. 26. The Texas Judiciary, Law, and Due Process. 27. Texas Public Policy. 28. Local Government. Appendix A. The Declaration of Independence. Appendix B. How to Read Case Citations and Find Court Decisions. Appendix C. Federalist Papers Nos. 10, 51, and 78. Appendix D. Justices of the U.S. Supreme Court, 1900 to the Present. Appendix E. Party Control of Congress, 1900 to the Present. Appendix F. Spanish Equivalents for Important Terms in American Government. Glossary.