This lucid, lively, and completely up-to-date introduction to politics and government in Texas is a must read for anyone wishing to better understand this influential state on the national scene. The People, Economy, and Political Culture of Texas;The Texas Constitution; The Federal Context of Texas Policymaking; Political Participation in Texas; Interest Groups; Political Parties; Elections; The Texas Legislature; The Executive Branch; The Judicial Branch; City Government; Counties, School Districts, and Special Districts; State Budget Policy; Criminal Justice. Anyone interested in Texas politics.