Mayor Corning

Grondahl’s classic biography of Albany’s “mayor for life,” now available in paperback.

Election campaigns in small and mid-sized electoral districts have been run from the grass roots from the beginning of the republic. Yard signs, door-to-door canvassing, and soap-box oratory have characterized state and local elections for years, and many predict their persistence into the 21st century. This book looks at new trends in small-town politics, tracking the infiltration of sophisticated communications technology, the use of political consultants, and the increase in fundraising and campaign expenditures. Original surveys, interviews, and in-depth case studies lead the author to conclude that the new tactics are with us to stay, but that their potentially negative effects--rising campaign budgets and diminished citizen participation--may be mitigated by creative approaches to reform. Visit our website for sample chapters!

Traces over 300 years of the city's colorful history, from Dutch farming and fur trading post to the culturally diverse, dynamic capital of one of the nation's most powerful states. John J. McEneny captures the flavor and spirit of this dynamic multi-cultural capital city with intriguing details and an introduction by Pulitzer Prize-winning author William Kennedy.