What do you know about politics? What should you know? Forget views, beliefs and opinions – politics is really a science. Dr. Kirby Goidel and Dr. Todd Kent from the Texas A&M Department of Political Science use their years of teaching, research and campaign experience to show you what’s actually happening in politics. No partisan politics here, just a navigation of political data, media, money, behavior and more so you can be more informed the next time you vote.
Listen to Recent Episodes
#041 – Does Presidential Greatness Exist?
What is presidential greatness? Does it even exist? Kirby and Todd sit down with Texas A&M former student and co-director of the Presidential Greatness Project, Justin Vaughn, to explore patterns among highly rated presidents and the power of their terms. The hosts pose the question: what makes a president “great?” Vaughn shares his research, noting that the consensus is evolving. While a “great” presidential run has traditionally been marked by policy change and broad impact, there is a growing emphasis on a president’s commitment to democratic norms and honorable leadership. Later, the group discusses the unique pressures and obstacles presidents face, and how those factors shape their reputation. Vaughn says a clear indicator of presidential greatness is whether or not the presidential successor is willing to embrace and build upon the legacy left behind.
Click here to listen to past episodes on our website, or find the show on your favorite podcast platform.
Meet the Hosts
Dr. Kirby Goidel
Kirby Goidel is a professor in the Department of Political Science at Texas A&M. He received his Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of Kentucky and arrived to teach in Aggieland in 2014. Goidel’s research focuses on public opinion, political communications and how institutions influence policy. He currently serves as Associate Department Head at the Bush School and is co-editor of “Social Science Quarterly.”
Dr. Todd Kent
Todd Kent is the director of undergraduate programs and an instructional professor for the Department of Political Science at Texas A&M. Kent completed his Ph.D. in Political Science here at A&M. He has both international higher education experience and practical experience in campaigns and political consulting. His research specializes in presidential foreign policy decision-making and political risk-taking.
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