Mercer Times

Princeton University's Center for the Study of Democratic Politics (CSDP) has become a platform for fostering dialogue across political divides. Recently, figures from both ends of the political spectrum, including a former deputy chief of staff to Donald Trump and a former chief of staff to Nancy Pelosi, have visited Princeton to share their insights on governance.

Amaney Jamal, dean of the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA), highlighted the center's role in providing "vital training to future scholars and policymakers" by welcoming diverse perspectives. The CSDP will host an upcoming panel titled “Decoding the Vote: Data-Driven Insights for the 2024 Election,” featuring experts like Christina Coloroso, Joe Lenski, and Chris Wilson.

The center was established in 1999 by Larry Bartels and is currently co-directed by Tali Mendelberg and Frances Lee. It aims to promote democratic ideals through research and dialogue. Mendelberg emphasized CSDP's commitment to democracy, stating it encourages discussions that uphold norms of pluralism and respect.

The center also plans post-election panels with figures such as Amy Walter to analyze electoral outcomes. According to Lee, these events aim "to help illuminate the issues" and enhance public understanding of politics.

Research at CSDP addresses critical issues like political polarization and misinformation. Notable faculty include Nolan McCarty, who studies legislative polarization; Hye Young You, who examines lobbying impacts; Andy Guess, who investigates misinformation; Markus Prior, who explores voter behavior; and Paul Starr, who writes about societal divides.

CSDP boasts significant expertise in race and politics with scholars like Ismail White and LaFleur Stephens-Dougan leading research initiatives. A national study on Black voters is underway through a grant from PACRI.

Additionally, CSDP supports connections between academia and Washington D.C., facilitating discussions between students and policymakers. Rob Oldham, a Ph.D. student funded by CSDP for his research on congressional policymaking during crises, expressed gratitude for these opportunities.