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Acknowledgments
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The genesis for this project began during my graduate studies at the University of Maryland in the mid-s. More than any other event, the dramatic impact of the elections on President Clinton’s relations with Congress stimulated my interest in examining the consequences of divided government on the modern legislative presidency. Two distinguished scholars in particular challenged and encouraged me to take up the question. I owe a heartfeltandenduringdebtofgratitudetoEricUslaner—scholar,mentor,and friend—who is both my toughest critic and strongest supporter. His indefatigablefaithinmyresearch ,firstasmydissertationchair,andnowasacolleague in the profession, helped in immeasurable ways to bring this manuscript to fruition. His methodological guidance and dedication in reading and commenting on countless drafts of this manuscript over the past five years proved indispensable. I am also indebted to Roger Davidson, who cochaired my dissertation research. Our many discussions on presidential–congressional relations , his unmatched grasp of congressional history, and his steadfast encouragement were invaluable. Paul Herrnson and Jim Gimpel also provided many insights and assistance with this research. For helpful comments, suggestions, and encouragement on the manuscript I thank my colleagues at the University of Florida. My many in-depth conversations with Larry Dodd helped tremendously in refining elements of the theoretical framework, as he continually prompted me to “think outside thebox.”RichardScher’ssteadfastfriendshipandoptimismabouttheproject during the many arduous revisions were inestimable. Many other colleagues, including Steve Craig, Jeff Gill, Michael Martinez, Beth Rosenson, and Ken Wald contributed to the project—from hallway conversations to departmental brownbag lunch talks. I would also like to acknowledge the scholars who reviewed my manuscript . Bruce Oppenheimer’s insights and detailed, substantive comments greatly improved the work. I also thank several anonymous presidency scholars who reviewed earlier drafts of the book. Acknowledgments xv Finally, I wish to thank my parents and my wife, Stacey, for their enduring support of my scholarship throughout the years. The many pages of this book reflect my family’s love, encouragement, and patience. Thanks as well to my feline companions, Badger and Belle, for keeping me company and brightening my days at the computer with their playful antics—including the occasional trek across the keyboard. Acknowledgments [34.201.37.128] Project MUSE (2024-03-28 23:37 GMT) The Presidency, Congress, and Divided Government ...