The third edition of US politics today provides a concise, up-to-date and accessible introduction to US government and politics. It offers a survey of core institutions such as the Presidency, Congress and the US Supreme Court, assesses the electoral system and considers the part played by organised interests and political parties. The book includes coverage of the 2008 presidential election and the Obama administration's record in office. The book also introduces some of the most important debates and arguments within American political science. These include theories of voting behaviour, different approaches to presidential power, competing perspectives on the changing nature of the political parties, and contrasting representations of the lobbying process. The book is of particular relevance to undergraduate and A-level students but is also valuable for the general reader.