Politics + Governance

Research Centers

The Center for the Study of Politics and Governance develops practical information and solutions to pressing political and policy challenges. The center strives to increase public understanding of politics through research relevant to policymakers and legislators throughout the Upper Midwest and by serving as a resource to the media and citizens on important policy issues.

Related Degrees
Master of Public Policy (MPP)
Mid-career Master of Public Affairs (MPA)

Professional Programs
Policy Fellows

Faculty Experts
Senior Fellow Harry Boyte
Professor Lawrence R. Jacobs
Associate Professor Paul Stone
Senior Fellow Vin Weber

Lawrence R. Jacobs

Politics and Governance chair

"Politics means more than an everyother-year obligation to vote. It means going beyond the horse race polls to understand the public’s evaluations of policy issues and candidates, how and why some issues dominate the news while others slip from the radar, and the influence—or lack thereof—that public opinion plays in politicians’ behavior. The strength of our democracy also is important and a reason we look for nonpartisan ways to improve it.

"At a policy and planning school like the Humphrey School, it is critical that students understand the political context in which policy decisions are made so that they can influence the process in a positive and productive way. It also is important that they learn about policymaking in the public arena, through agenda-setting, advocacy, persuasion, and participation in grassroots reform."