Politics
Polarized politics has changed the dynamics of legislation and policymaking at the state and local level. Political parties with supermajorities are increasingly in control in many states and cities. These stories explain what that means for legislators, governors and mayors and how politicians can navigate this new political landscape.
Two big political blocs have different ideas when it comes to health.
President Donald Trump's declaration of a crime emergency for Washington, D.C., ends Wednesday. But a city Council member warns that the occupation will not end.
Democrats have put a measure on the November ballot that puts GOP seats at risk. Republicans complain the move is anti-democratic but haven’t settled on messaging yet.
Burton was an influential figure in Democratic circles for decades as a member of Congress and state legislator.
Having so many senior politicians is off-putting to many voters, particularly the young. There is a solution.
In a special session focused on redistricting, Gov. Mike Kehoe wants legislators to create a requirement for ballot measures to pass in every congressional district, rendering most future initiatives toothless.
Abbott, the Republican governor of Texas, has presided over major changes in areas including education, taxes, immigration and economic growth. He discusses his legacy even as he gears up for a fourth term.
An analysis of 11 million vehicle records shows Teslas and imports dominate in Democratic areas, while Ford trucks and other American brands lead in Republican strongholds.
From Omaha to Orange County, Democrats and Republicans face off in districts with margins of less than one point, where even small shifts could decide control.
Seattle looks likely to reject a mayor yet again, while San Francisco voters are poised to recall a local supervisor.
More than 50 lawmakers fled to block GOP maps, building a legal record and national momentum. But the redistricting plan still moved ahead.
Trump’s vow to get rid of mail voting may be aimed at blue states, but it’s been gaining popularity among GOP voters. And it would almost certainly be unconstitutional.
From serious discussions about crime and transit to acting silly with kids, Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther spent a day doing outreach and learning.
Armed with a massive campaign war chest, Greg Abbott is using aggressive tactics against Democrats and fellow Republicans to cement conservative priorities in Texas.
There was a time when mid-decade redistricting was common. Such efforts often backfired, which is why the practice remains rare.
The bill, requested by Trump, is designed to boost GOP control in 2026 but faces stalled action in the House due to a quorum break.
It’s happening more and more. But while the initiative process could use some reforms, it's a legitimate element of the democratic process.
Despite their obvious differences, legislators are able to work across the aisle on issues of shared concern such as transportation and housing, says the head of NCSL.
Once seen as a strong favorite, Bruce Harrell now faces an uphill general election fight against Katie Wilson, his highly progressive challenger.
A dozen years after bankruptcy, Detroit is in better shape than almost anyone could have imagined. But too much of the city remains poor, says Mary Sheffield, the probable next mayor.
A month after she was sworn in, Cara Spencer had to deal with a devastating tornado.
Democrats face financial and political risk in their bid to block the GOP plan.
The mayor is facing a more than $1 billion budget deficit and has already disavowed a property tax hike.
Monique Limón, a Santa Barbara Democrat, was chosen to serve as the next president pro tem of the California state Senate. A former educator, she’s the first woman of color to serve in the role.
Many voters are switching party allegiances during the Trump era, but the parties aren't changing in ways that reflect their preferences.
A Medicaid work rule tucked into the sweeping law is now being cast as a liability for Republicans in competitive districts.
Facing a push by Texas Republicans to redraw congressional maps, California’s governor is weighing a special-election effort to override the state’s independent commission and protect Democratic seats.
The power of legislatures has waxed and waned over the centuries. It's been on an upswing during the 50 years since the founding of NCSL.
Virginia has the nation’s oldest legislature. It’s also arguably the most powerful.
New York City’s Democratic mayoral nominee has idealism and charisma. If he wins, he’ll need someone with a deep understanding of how a city works to translate passion into governance. There’s an obvious candidate.
Some Republicans have expressed concern that the National Education Association has veered into partisan politics and no longer merits federal endorsement.
