December 7, 2000

WHAT:

No matter who ultimately wins the presidency, says University of Alabama at Birmingham political scientist James Slack, Ph.D., voters in Florida are going to hold their politicians’ feet to the fire in upcoming local and statewide races. “One thing Bush and Gore have forgotten — that all politics is local.”

WHY:

“Every politician in Florida is weighing the possible outcomes of their decision to support Bush or Gore. They’re asking themselves how far do they want to go to help either candidate, even if they win the presidency? What impact will their decisions have on their careers in politics. The election officials in Florida and the circuit court judges may face voters accusing them of helping to steal this election for Bush or Gore. It will be interesting to see how the local races in Florida play out in the future. … The 2002 elections may be an early test.”

WHO:

James D. Slack, Ph.D., (205) 934-9020, is professor and chairman of the UAB Department of Government and Public Service.

WHAT:

Slack also talks about the problems either candidate will face if they win the presidency: “Either candidate will have a weak presidency,” says Slack who will teach an American government course this winter. “Given the 50-50 split in the Senate, the status quo will benefit because there will be no great changes. Should Gore win, his plans to revitalize urban education through massive federal funding won’t be realized as quickly as he had hoped. For Bush, privatization options for pensions and Social Security will likely be placed on a back burner. Bush also will have a harder time appointing justices who are opposed to Roe vs. Wade.”

CALL:

For interviews, call Gail Short, UAB Media Relations, (205) 934-8931.