State governments produce a wider range of policies that affect the lives of their citizens than does any other level of government. It is crucial, therefore, that an effective and responsive state government have a strong leader at the helm--the governor. Eric B. Herzik and Brent W. Brown have brought together a collection of essays that provide an in-depth analysis of the factors that influence gubernatorial performance and the roles that governors assume when interacting with the major components of the state policymaking process.

The editors have divided the book into three sections. Section one begins with an introduction discussing elements of gubernatorial leadership and the status of governors in the American political system. Chapters one and two examine the nature of the state chief executive's efforts to shape policy and achieve goals. These chapters also summarize much of the literature on the topic of gubernatorial leadership. Section two covers aspects of the governor's transition to office, managerial role, state bureaucracy oversight, legislative interactions, and budget powers. The third section delineates gubernatorial policy efforts in specific areas: economic development, education, the environment, health care, and nuclear waste. As a unique and focused study of the governor in state government, this volume will be of great value to courses in state and local politics, executive politics, and public policy. It will also be useful for state government administrators, political scientists, and the collections of state, academic, and public libraries.