We are excited to announce that the University of North Georgia Press is publishing a new edition of the textbook, The Basics of American Government, edited by Dr. Carl Cavalli, with contributions from several current and former UNG faculty. This new edition reflects significant changes in politics and government over the past four years.

Dr. Cavalli says, “Like most political and social science textbooks, we are looking to stay relevant.” The new edition reflects changes over the past few years, most notably the new administration in Washington, D.C. There have also been significant changes to Congress, including a partisan change in one chamber.  The new edition will also reflect changes to state politics, such as the election of a new governor in Georgia in 2018. In addition, this update will also cover aspects of the election in November 2020.

As with the previous versions, the new edition examines the rise of new political figures and the exit of others, the shift in policy and political focus at both the state and federal level, the changes in the public, the rise of partisanship, and shifting views of government in everyday life – including those resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Lastly, the authors are honored to have the contribution and insights of former Governor Nathan Deal added to the upcoming edition.

Along with Dr. Cavalli, contributors to the current and upcoming edition of the textbook include Maria J. Albo, Ross C. Alexander, Barry D. Friedman, Craig B. Greathouse, Jonathan S. Miner, Brian M. Murphy, K. Michael Reese, Charles H. “Trey” Wilson III and student contributor Mary Catherine Beutel.