The Relationship Between US Presidents and Governors from Opposing Political Parties
Faculty Mentor
Joshua Kennedy
Location
Russell Union Ballroom
Type of Research
On-going
Session Format
Oral Presentation
College
College of Behavioral & Social Sciences
Department
Political Science
Abstract
This research examines how relationships between U.S. presidents and governors from opposing political parties shape policy implementation and crisis management. In a time of heightened partisan polarization, intergovernmental cooperation is often strained and potentially affects the effectiveness and timeliness of governmental responses. The main research question asks how partisan divides between presidents and governors influence the execution of policies and the management of major crises. Drawing on Particularism Theory, which suggests presidents may allocate attention and resources strategically for political gain, this study is a comparative case study approach. Key cases will include responses to Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing instances of cooperation and conflict, this research looks to identify patterns in policy delays and coordination challenges. The findings are expected to demonstrate that partisan tension significantly affects governance outcomes, while also showing the conditions that cross-party collaboration with either enhance or hinder an effective crisis response.
Program Description
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Start Date
4-23-2026 2:15 PM
End Date
4-23-2026 2:30 PM
Recommended Citation
Richey, Adam, "The Relationship Between US Presidents and Governors from Opposing Political Parties" (2026). GS4 Student Scholars Symposium. 233.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/research_symposium/2026/2026/233
The Relationship Between US Presidents and Governors from Opposing Political Parties
Russell Union Ballroom
This research examines how relationships between U.S. presidents and governors from opposing political parties shape policy implementation and crisis management. In a time of heightened partisan polarization, intergovernmental cooperation is often strained and potentially affects the effectiveness and timeliness of governmental responses. The main research question asks how partisan divides between presidents and governors influence the execution of policies and the management of major crises. Drawing on Particularism Theory, which suggests presidents may allocate attention and resources strategically for political gain, this study is a comparative case study approach. Key cases will include responses to Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic. By analyzing instances of cooperation and conflict, this research looks to identify patterns in policy delays and coordination challenges. The findings are expected to demonstrate that partisan tension significantly affects governance outcomes, while also showing the conditions that cross-party collaboration with either enhance or hinder an effective crisis response.
